Obituary of Richard Daniel Predovich
Richard Daniel Predovich
It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Richard, on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at the age of 82.
Richard was predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Majorie Predovich and his loving wife Helen (2021). Richard is survived by his two children Jim (Jenny) and Julie, special grandson Edwin, brother Ken (Jeanne), sister Mary Ann Edwards (David), in-laws Bruce and Mary Christie, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and his grand-dog, Maggie.
Richard was born in Sudbury, and at an early age, moved to St Catharines where he quickly developed a love and ability for sports. He was passionate about softball and hockey. Rick's hockey playing career peaked in 1959/60 when he was a member of the Memorial Cup Championship St. Catharines Teepees. He was offered a contract to sign with the Chicago Black Hawk Organization, during a time when there were only six teams in the NHL. Instead, Richard joined General Motors in the purchasing department, raised a family and contributed to the community.
Rick's zeal for sports continued after he stopped playing. Rick coached hockey and softball for many, many decades. When he was not coaching, Rick could be found perfecting his golf game on many of Niagara Parks' courses; he truly looked forward to the summer when he could meet and compete against his golf buddies.
Richard also tremendously enjoyed his career in the purchasing department at General Motors. He worked for GM for over 40 years. Upon retirement he assumed a lead role with his retirees' group.
In his free time, and in retirement, Richard enjoyed travelling with his family and friends to various destinations that revolved around golf. Helen enjoyed walking the courses with Richard, while he golfed with friends in Virginia, Myrtle Beach and Muskoka. Excursions with close friends to Frankenmuth Michigan, combined both of their respective loves: golfing and shopping.
On behalf of our family, we wish to sincerely thank the many doctors, nurses and health care workers that treated Richard with care and compassion. A special thank you goes to Dr. David Wan for always checking in on Richard.
As per Richard’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. Arrangements have been entrusted to the George Darte Funeral Home in St. Catharines. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, Richard and his family would prefer donations in his memory to the Rankin Cancer Run or the Humane Society of Greater Niagara. Richard was a proud volunteer of the Rankin Cancer Run for 16 years and he had a deep love for animals.
