POLCHES, RICHARD "SONNY" J.
It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Jerome Polches "Sonny" announce his unexpected passing at his home on Saturday, April 23, 2016. He was born in Fredericton on April 8, 1944, a son of the late Richard Polches Sr. and the late Genevieve Gertrude (Paul) Polches.
Sonny was an avid outdoorsman and he loved to hunt, fish and go for walks. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, telling jokes and teasing them in a way only a grandfather could. He would always remind them to, “Listen to your mother and father” and “Respect your elders.” Sonny loved to talk and tell stories (often very long stories!). Fluent in the Maliseet language, he took great pride in teaching it to his children and grandchildren. He was always keenly interested in what was happening in the community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and loved him.
Sonny’s working career would vary from be employed by Devon Pharmacy for 12 years, driving a School Bus for four years and later becoming Chief of St. Mary’s First Nation, an office he held from 1984 to 1992.
Sonny is survived by loving and devoted wife of 49 years, Mary “Homer” (Nash) Polches; two sons, Jeffrey (Melodie) Polches and Peter Polches Sr.; a daughter Carol Ann; ninegrandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all living in Fredericton. His grandchildren were special in his eyes and he loved them all so very much, especially “his girls” who held a special place in his heart. He also leaves behind a very dear sister, Elizabeth “Betty” McCoy (Myles) and much loved brothers, Allen, Glen (Cathy) and Claude (Kathy), several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Aside from his parents, a daughter, Kathleen Polches, a great-granddaughter, Skyler “Sipsis” Cochrane and a sister Faye Paul predeceased him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone for their kind words and expressions of sympathy at this sad time. We really appreciate the love and concern you have shown the family.
Visitation and service for Sonny will be private and for family only.
For those who wish to remember Sonny by way of a memorial contribution, the family has suggested the S.P.C.A and the Canadian Cancer Society.
Bishop’s Funeral Home (458-1885) have been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Online condolences and the sharing of memories may be expressed through www.bishopsfuneralhome.com