Roderick (Rod) Graeme Richmond

1931 – 2025 

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Rod Richmond of Victoria, B.C., at the age of 93.

Born in West Vancouver to Henry and Olive Richmond, Rod grew up with a love of the outdoors and a sense of adventure. As a boy, he spent countless hours, often with his sister Donna, horseback riding behind the family home on Duchess Avenue – back when Park Royal was still farmland. Rod attended West Vancouver High School, where he was a proud member of the High Y Club. It was during a club trip to Victoria in Grade 12 that fate intervened – he met Margaret Usher at a dance at Oak Bay High. It was the beginning of a lifelong love story. During his high school summer vacations, Rod worked at B.C.’s Douglas Lake Ranch, and followed his passion for horses and the land, by becoming a full-time ranch hand after his Grade 12 graduation.  Meanwhile, Margaret finished high school and pursued her studies at UBC, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. Their courtship endured the distance, and they married shortly after her university graduation.

Rod and Margaret began their married life in the Cariboo, where Rod had started a ranching operation at Criss Creek in 1954. They settled into their Pan-Abode home and embraced the rhythms of ranch life. Several years later, the couple chose a new path and moved to Victoria, where Rod returned to school to earn his Education degree at the University of Victoria. Rod went on to enjoy a rewarding 30-year teaching career. He taught Grades 4 to 7 at Vic-West, Tolmie, and McKenzie elementary schools, and later served as Vice-Principal at Rock Heights and Fairburn Elementary.   Rod and Margaret built a vibrant life in Victoria, surrounded by dear friends and close family. Winters were filled with curling—often cheering at the Brier—and summers brought the joy of boating on the Salish Sea. These gatherings were the heart of their social life, creating lasting memories with those they loved.

Rod is survived by his devoted wife Margaret; his sons Dave (Nathalie Lemyre) and Bruce (Michelle Richmond); and his grandchildren Jaclyn (Braden), Roxane (Tyler), Dallas, Tristan and Jacob Richmond, who were a constant source of pride.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital for the gentle and loving care they provided to Rod and his family during his final weeks.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this spring. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice. 

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