Richard “Lee” Mc Coll
May 22,1947~July 22, 2013
Lee passed away at home surrounded by loving family. His last four days were filled with family stories, words of love, laughter, tears but most importantly music. There was always someone holding his hand or laying by his side.
Lee was born in Brockville Ontario and was finally adopted by John and Ida McColl of Cornwall Ontario. A proud and loving family that refused to give him up. While attending the technical program in high school Lee worked for a wonderful man Vern Fraser, who of course owned a Shell gas station. Lee was an avid car racer and put many miles on traveling to various race track in Canada and the US with his best friend Ron Seaver. Lee decided at this time to make a career decision; so he enlisted in the RCMP.
After basic training in Ottawa he was transferred to a small town in Saskatchewan. Luck would have it that this was the home of his future wife, Mary Ann. As time passed our paths crossed and he made a $2.00 bet that he could take me out and me, who wanted to knock him down a peg or two — went on our first date. It sure did not start out well but after only one short week we knew we were soul mates. We were married October 26, 1968 and that very night we left on transfer to Ottawa where Lee was posted to the Musical Ride.
After 2 years in the Musical Ride, Lee began his training as a Forensic Field Identification Technician at RCMP HQ and Carleton University. In 1971 he was transferred to Prince George to start his Ident career. He quickly excelled in his field and in 1975 he was put in charge of his own office in Dawson Creek BC. After 14plus years in the Force a family decision was made that Lee quit his position in the RCMP and Mary Ann quit her nursing position. The family was packed up and we began an adventure that was to be the best of our lives— we moved to Salt Spring Island!
We arrived having purchased Scotia Taxi. Shortly after that we were approached by Loomis Courier to be their agent here. Unexpectedly, the Shell Station became available and Lee was in his glory, it was just like being with Vern. It was not to long before the BCAA approached him to be their representative on Salt Spring Island. A few years went by and along came Shell Canada to ask Lee if he would like to be their bulk fuel agent on the Island, Lee, of course never said no.
It was through these many businesses that Lee was able to “shine“. He met so many people that he could help; sometimes with a few kind words, some medical advice, a joke, a gift of money, a free tow, a free repair, free tires for those who really needed them — and food. He asked for nothing in return.
Over the years Lee belonged to too many volunteer groups and organizations to mention. His goal in life was to serve others, and he did with all his heart!
Lee is survived by Mary Ann his lovely wife of 45 years, his sons David (Jen) and Stephen; and the “lights of his life“ his two grandchildren, Abbygail and William.
Lee did not want a formal service following his death. His ashes will be scattered at sea in August and a celebration of his life will be held on October 5, 2013 at 2pm at the Fulford Community Hall, 2591 Fulford Ganges Road, Salt Spring Island, British Columbia.
Our family has requested no flowers, If you wish to honour his life a donation can be made to the:
SENIORS SERVICES SOCIETY
379 Lower Ganges Road
Salt Spring Island
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“REST EASY, MY LOVE, AND RUN IN FIELDS OF GOLD“
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Richard Lee
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McColl – mortuary notice Richard Lee
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