Richard “Dick” Joseph Dwyer

Passed away peacefully on Monday, December 29, 2025, in London, Ontario. He was born in London on February 6, 1940, to Vern and Betty Dwyer.

Dick married Jacqueline Washburn on September 5, 1957. Together they raised three children: Kathy (Scott) of Calgary, Alberta; Laura (Eric) of Dryden, Ontario; and Mark (Debbie) of Victoria, British Columbia.

Dick was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Linda Rose, Karleah (Eric), Jacqueline (Cam), Jamie (Lachlan), and Ryley (Jess). He was immensely proud of each of their accomplishments. Following his stroke, his face would light up, and his speech noticeably improved whenever he saw or spoke with any of them. He was also blessed with two precious great-grandsons, Silas and Atlas, and was grateful to have visited with them last month.

Dick is survived by his half-sisters, Lori (Fred), Les (Eric), and Lynn; and his nieces, Cindy (Oscar), Heather (Geoff), and Sherri. In addition, his dear friend Carol Sauve and her children, Brenda, Steven, and Melanie, were significant parts of Dad’s life, and they affectionately called him “Uncle Richard.” Dick was predeceased by his father, Vern Dwyer; his mother, Betty Houlton; and his sister, Sylvia Sears.

Richard attended various schools in and around London. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in August 1957 and served until October 1966, including a peacekeeping mission in Cyprus, at which time he received an honourable discharge. Following his military service, he held many positions, including railroad police officer, LTC bus driver, driving instructor, BFI truck driver, and Commissionaire in both Calgary and London. Dad also volunteered as a hockey coach for several years. His final working years prior to his stroke were spent driving a school bus for both Elgie/Murphy Bus Lines, a job he truly loved, as he greatly enjoyed spending time with the students he transported.  We learned recently that he was referred to as “the cowboy” by students in the Oakridge area, as he always had his cowboy hat on.

Richard relocated to Alberta five different times but always returned to London, where he resided until his passing. He often said, “I was born in London, and I’m going to die in London.”

After spending over 35 years with our mom, Jacqueline, they decided to part ways, and Dad spent several years travelling and enjoying life with his close friend Carol. One of their favourite pastimes was driving to Sarnia to watch boats while sharing fries under the bridge, feeding the birds. They also enjoyed drives in the country, a trip to the Delmar or casino, or just chilling over a coffee.  They cruised together and travelled west several times to visit Kathy, Scott, and their daughters, as well as Mark on Vancouver Island, before returning home to his residence at Laura’s house in London. Laura cared for Dad and his needs prior to his stroke.  Carol remained a devoted presence, visiting him regularly during his time in the nursing home. Thank you, Carol.

Some of Dick’s most cherished memories included trips to Holland to visit lifelong friends Martha and Johan, and the Collard family. Many special memories were created and treasured.

He loved golfing and playing cards, especially contract, cribbage, and euchre. During his time at the nursing home, he and his good friend Dave were regular partners in weekly euchre games, right up until Dave’s passing earlier this year.

Dad was an avid Toronto Blue Jays fan and a devoted supporter of the London Knights junior hockey team for more than 45 years. His immediate family holds many fond memories of accompanying him to the arena to cheer on the Knights. Dad was especially thrilled to receive an authentic Knights jersey from his daughters, Kathy and Laura, on Christmas Eve. He was deeply moved and had his favourite player’s name, “Bonk,” lettered on the back.

Many thanks to our friends in London who provided accommodations, transportation, and support during our frequent visits to see Dad. We are truly grateful for Dea and George, Deb and Bill, Rene and Jim, Denyse and Dave, Carmen, and many other friends in and around the London and Calgary areas who were always just a call away.

The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Nadia, who spent her coffee breaks visiting with Dad; Victoria, who visited faithfully twice a week; Tyra, who visited on weekends. Special thanks to Corine and Wayne, who went above and beyond during Dad’s final days, including accompanying him to the hospital in our absence (Dec 28); Nurse Alca, who consistently advocated for our father; nursing staff Geetika, Mary Ellen, Raj, Vergel, Jen and many other PSW staff members- Renayee, Aleesha, Jen, Kim, Karen, Melissa, Jeff, Monica, they all provided him with compassionate care and attention.  The Physio team, Arshpreet, Sashi, and Anjana, who walked dad on a regular basis and never shied away when he said “no”. They were persistent and kind to him and always brought smiles to his face-thank you, girls! Thanks to the medical staff in the emergency department at Victoria Hospital, who were compassionate and caring until the end.

In lieu of flowers and for those who would like to make a donation, please send your donation to “Kid Sport” in Richard Dwyer’s Memory.