RICE, RICHARD
It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that the death of Richard Rice is announced after a period of brief illness. A loving husband to Sharon Maxan and devoted father to Danielle Rice, Richard passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Edmunston, NB, he is the son of the late Martin and Florence (Belliveau) Rice.
Richard, with exemplary dedication and commitment, was at the forefront of French Second Language education in New Brunswick and Canada for several decades. He was instrumental in the establishment of French Immersion Programs throughout the Southern NB School Districts. He served as President and Board Member of the Canadian Parents for French Organization. He established and organized French Immersion camps, Quebec cultural trips, and provincial oratorical competitions. He was the Founder and Provincial Co-coordinator for 22 years for the NB/Quebec Student Exchange Program. Richard also worked as a Provincial French Second Language Consultant at the department of Education in Fredericton for several years. He established and facilitated the Summer Teacher Training Program located on Îles de la Madeleine for 15 years. In 2007 Richard was awarded the Lieutenant-Governor’s Dialogue Award for his dedication to fostering harmony between Anglophone and Francophone communities in New Brunswick. Richard retired with 35 years of service in the profession of education.
Richard was a great story-teller. He loved to embellish his stories for the entertainment of others. His out-going, social personality was loved by all. Richard had many talents including, being a very capable handyman/carpenter who had a natural “green thumb” for landscaping. He was passionate about sports, playing hockey, skiing and most recently bowling in the Good Time Bowling League. Richard was a caring and thoughtful man who absolutely adored his family and his very special grandson Alexandre, of whom he was so proud. Alexandre’s “Pappi” was his mentor. He will be deeply missed.
In addition to his wife Sharon and only child Danielle (Mike Damon), Richard will be lovingly remembered by his sister Margaret Ann Thorne (Gary); his adored grandson Alexandre Rice-Hoyt (Kailey DeLucry); niece Jennifer Thorne (Simon Gascon); nephew Jason Thorne (Tracey Baker-Thorne) his loyal canine companion “Gucci” and several extended family members and dear friends.
Along with his parents, Richard was predeceased by his sister Susan Rice.
Arrangements entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road (646-2424) with visitation Thursday from 6 to 8 pm and Friday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 19, 2015 from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Rothesay at 11 am. A reception will follow at the church with interment at a later date.
Donations in Richard's memory made to Bobby’s Hospice, SPCA/Animal Rescue, or the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.
To sign the guest book or to place an on-line condolence please visit www.fundyfuneralhome.com