LITTLE, Richard John
October 30, 1940 — July 29, 2022
On July 29, 2022, the family of Rick Little had to say their final goodbye to a loving husband, caring father, fun-loving grandfather, and uncle. He lived his 81 years challenged by his various business ventures in the construction trades, but he was always up for a new adventure.
Rick was a proud family man, and leaves behind, Donna, his beloved wife of 59 years; his sons Jim (Theresa), Mike (Joanna), and Rick (Marie); and his grandchildren Michelle (her fiancé Ian), Bri, Cameron, Ian, Ethan, Jayden and Fadlor. He will also be missed by his brothers Monty (Barb) and Murray (Pat); his numerous nieces and nephews; his extended family members; and his many friends. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law Wayne and sisters-in-law Audrey and Margy.
Rick grew up in Victoria, BC and was keen to travel and see the world. He always joked that he joined the Canadian Airforce to see the world and made it all the way to Comox, BC – just 2 hours up Vancouver Island. But one way or another, Rick did get to see the world: he went to Europe, New Zealand, Mexico, and Australia. With all his sons falling in love with American women, he also made countless trips to the US and was a Snowbird in Mesa, Arizona for years. He was a gifted tradesman and operated his own floor covering business for over 20 years before trying a stint in logging and then building Littco Enterprises Ltd into a reputable drywall and insulation business here in Kelowna, BC.
Rick loved his boats and took every opportunity to be out on the water. Every guest to Kelowna would find themselves cruising the lake and stopping for an ice cream in Peachland. Keen as always for adventure or a new activity, he joined the grandkids zip lining; tubing; skiing; snowshoeing – often ending in a snowball fight; snorkeling; fishing; and sailing. Rick kept life fun. He loved his golf and soon picked up his mantle – “Down the Middle Little”. His golf buddies often tease how boring it could be to watch his ball land in the middle of the fairway shot after shot.
Family and friends were a top priority for Rick. He was proud of his family’s accomplishments, and he made as many of the grandkids’ activities as he could (soccer, lacrosse, baseball, performances, graduations, ceremonies, and more). He relished quality time spent playing games with friends and family (cards, Cribbage, Quirkle, Monopoly, Sticks, and others). Rick always saw those around him and was quick to give a hand where he could. He believed in giving back to his community, and he supported various organizations. Even in his late 70s, he would stand out in the cold for the Legion’s annual Poppy Drive, volunteered with the Red Cross, and other service organizations.
Family and friends are going to miss this generous soul. He had an infectious belly laugh, quick wit, and a glint in his eye as he snatched the last Oreo. He will always have a special place in their hearts, their beloved cashew bandit, known for looting the mixed nuts.
Memorial donations may be sent to the Royal Canadian Legion.
Please join us as we celebrate the life of Richard Little on MONDAY, AUGUST 15, 2022, at 1:00 PM (PDT), at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
LIVESTREAM:
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de LITTLE Richard John October 30 1940 — July 29 2022..
Décès pour la Ville: Kelowna, Province: Colombie britanique