Obituary
Rick was born in Vancouver and was the youngest adopted child of Frederick (Fred) and Anne Ouston. He grew up in South Vancouver and attended St. Andrew’s Catholic School and John Oliver Secondary. After graduation from the Journalism program at Langara College he had a varied and exciting career as an investigative reporter for The Vancouver Sun. He brought four Nazi war criminals to justice with his investigative acuity and attended war crimes trials in Italy and Latvia to see first hand the fruits of his labours. He remembered them as some of the most moving experiences of his life. Rick was also a teacher of journalism at Langara College in Vancouver, wrote stories for Vancouver Magazine, was a TV reporter and assignment editor with the CBC, convergence editor with Global TV and was an assignment editor upon his return to his first love, print media, with The Vancouver Sun. He was a three-time finalist for the coveted Jack Webster Award for Journalism. Rick also authored two books, Finding Family the story of his personal search for his birth roots; and, Getting the Goods a primer for aspiring journalists. He was well travelled, respected in his field and proud of the many friends he made during his media career.
Rick’s family was also very proud of his many accomplishments. He was predeceased by his father Fred Ouston in 1968 when Rick was only twelve. It left an indelible mark on his soul. His loving mother Anne passed away in 2001. Rick was also predeceased by his beloved partner Christina in May, 2017. He leaves his sisters Sharon (Gordie) Belec and Lorraine Ostapin (Wilma Watson); five nephews and nieces: Gordon, Jamie, Corinne, Carolyn and Adrienne as well as numerous cousins and their families. He also leaves his beloved cat Pat.
Rick will be remembered as a man with a sharp pencil and an even sharper tongue on occasion. He was an excellent cook and loved music. He took delight in his Charles Street home and the people he met in that neighbourhood. Rick accomplished much in his life and was very proud of the path he had taken.
There will be no religious service at Rick’s request. He would like the «Charles St. Group» to get together and remember him over a glass of wine and fond memories at their convenience. Many thanks to devoted friends Paul and Martin for their caring and kindness in the past number of years. Special thanks to Charlotte at G-WMH for her efforts on Rick’s behalf. He has gone to be with Christina and is finally at peace. «Go Rest High On That Mountain» brother.
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Richard James Ouston September 10 1955 August 31 2020 (age 64)..
Décès pour la Ville: Qualicum-Beach, Province: Colombie britanique