Rick Durand

Joseph Gabriel Richard “Rick” Durand was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He passed away suddenly on July 10, 2022 at age 68.

He was born to the late Lucien Durand and Evelyne Bessette, on July 8, 1954 in Verdun, Quebec. Rick joined the military as a steward May 19, 1972 and retired August 17, 1998. He continued his work supporting the Canadian Armed Forces working as the Wardroom Function coordinator until the time of his death. He loved planning and coordinating events that brought people together.

While posted to Bermuda he met his wife, Joy, through his now Brother-In-Law Buckie (Shelley) Williams, and they were married in 1989. Through postings they lived in Chilliwack, BC, Kingston, ON and finally settled down in Lower Sackville, NS where they raised their two daughters Alanna and Laura. Rick loved to talk about his family and would tell anyone who would listen about their adventures and accomplishments. He loved music and attended many concerts over the years, always with family and friends in tow.

He spent many hours out at the shore- rarely hitting the beach but making sure everyone was well fed- whether it was bacon, burgers or lobster. He enjoyed fishing with his son-in-law Kelly, though they rarely returned with any fish. He was an avid dog lover- his dogs Randy and Kara were the light of his life. He was so loving to his grand-puppies Nova, Remi and Luna and could always be found giving them pets or throwing the ball.

He could always be found chatting with people, or more often tormenting those that he loved. He typically kept a straight face and has been described as scary to some, but anyone who knew him knew that he was always joking.

He will be greatly missed by his extended family and friends in Nova Scotia, Quebec and around the world.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the NS SPCA or the Heart and Stroke Foundation in his honour.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday July 17, 2022 at the C&PO’s Mess, CFB Halifax at 1300. A live stream link will be posted for those who cannot attend in person. As per MARLANT Safety: masks are required to be worn when transiting around the building, and when not actively eating or drinking. Masks are not required in outside spaces (ie. Patio)