Richard (Dad, Grandpa, Papa) Bury never met a stranger. He’d strike up a conversation anywhere, follow it with a truly terrible pun, and possibly steal your nose.
He grew up in Kelowna, the son of Bob and Margaret Bury, in a family rooted in the land and in community. His father was among the founders of the BC Fruit Growers Co-operative, and from an early age Richard worked alongside him, learning the rhythms of orchard life through the labour of his own hands. His childhood was rich in changing seasons, neighbourhood hockey games, and the kind of knowledge that only comes from living close to the earth. Those early years shaped his lifelong curiosity, his love of nature, and his gift for noticing the small but meaningful details of the world around him.
Those years also gave him his stories, especially ones where he was the butt of the joke. A favourite involved firing both barrels of a shotgun at a pheasant, only for his father to spend dinner picking shot from his mouth. Of being kicked by a cow. Of being chased down a cliffside into a canyon by a swarm of wasps. Small moments, vividly remembered. He told them with the same delight at 80 that he had at 8.
Richard studied Education at UBC and met Lorna at an Anglican church function. Their partnership spanned nearly 71 years, grounded in warmth, humour, and a shared commitment to family and community.
He spent most of his teaching career in the Surrey School District: at Johnston Heights Junior High, followed by 28 years at North Surrey Senior Secondary, and concluding at Earl Marriott Secondary. He also taught night school in the early days of Kwantlen College. Even in retirement, he kept teaching, returning as a substitute teacher, tutoring students, and finding deep satisfaction working with learners at the Surrey Work and Learn Centre. Teaching was his calling… he taught everywhere, not just in a classroom.
Community service was woven throughout his life. Richard was a Scout and Scout leader, a soccer coach, a committed blood donor recognized by the Canadian Red Cross, and a returning officer in multiple federal elections. He believed in showing up, contributing, and helping his community thrive.
His interests were wide-ranging. He was a passionate birder who could identify species by sight and sound, a gardener who rescued plants others had given up on, an excellent Bridge player, and a golfer who enjoyed the camaraderie of longtime friends. He collected stamps from childhood and shared the hobby with patience and delight.
Richard passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, in his 90th year, surrounded by love. He is survived by his wife, Lorna; his children David (Janet), Lorne (Mary-Ann), Robert, and Karin (Erin); his sister, Mary Scott; eight grandchildren: Justin (Devon), Alysha (John), Jillian, Nicholas, Alanah (Nash), Drew, Finn and Zach; and four great-grandchildren: Colin, Emmett, Macklin, and Rory. He was predeceased by his brother, Charles.
A private service has taken place. In honour of Richard’s memory, slow down and notice the world around you. Have some ice cream and count your blessings.