Richard Edmund Henry Avison

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard (Dick) Avison, who died peacefully at home on June 9, 2026, at the age of 90, holding the hand of Lois, his beloved wife of 65 years.

Born on April 22, 1936, in Deloraine, Manitoba, Dick grew up in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec. He earned degrees from McGill University and the University of Toronto and later completed a degree in hospital administration in Manchester, England.

Dick began his career as a hospital administrator in Chapleau, Ontario. He later joined the federal Department of National Health and Welfare and, in 1975, was appointed Regional Director of the Medical Services Branch in the Yukon, overseeing health services for First Nations communities. His career took the family from Ontario to England, Ottawa, Whitehorse, Regina and Halifax before he retired to White Rock, British Columbia, in 1990.

Retirement did not end Dick’s commitment to service. For ten years, he managed the First United Church Cold Weather Shelter. He was active with the NDP in White Rock, played with the Hazelmere Fiddlers and enjoyed many rounds of golf at Meridian Golf Course.

Family was at the centre of Dick’s life. He found his greatest joy at the family cabin near Merritt, where he and Lois created a magical “Hundred Acre Wood” for their children and grandchildren. Pooh, Piglet and Eeyore waited along the trail, and a hollowed-out tree held a honey pot filled with chocolate chip cookies. Dick organized archery, led “bear hunts” and spent ten years working with the family to build a log “casita.”

Dick will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, curiosity, quiet humour and deep devotion to his family.

He was predeceased by his parents; four siblings; his son, Scott; and his daughter, Wendy. He leaves behind his wife, Lois; daughters Shannon and Heather (Roy Jantzen); daughter-in-law Michele; sister Elizabeth; eight grandchildren—Liam, Ariel, Ian, Connor, Julia, Kate, Sonia and Eve—and great-granddaughter Reeves.

A memorial service will be held at Peninsula United Church, 2756 127 Street, Surrey, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a reception. Donations may be made to a local food bank or a charity of your choice.