ZACHARIASSEN, Richard Donald
January 15, 1958, Calgary, AB - February 8, 2015, Rosebud, AB
Richard Donald Zachariassen, beloved husband of Helen Zachariassen, passed away suddenly at the family farm near Rosebud. Richard (Rick) was born in Calgary, the third of five children of Raymond and Phyllis Zachariassen. Growing up on the farm was a joy for Rick – everything was interesting and exciting, especially if an engine was attached. Rick often helped his Dad and Herman Hansen, the family’s hired man; asking questions, taking machinery apart and learning how to put it back together. Rick’s formal learning started in Grade one at Severn Creek School in Rosebud. When the Rosebud school closed, Rick continued his education at the school in Standard. After graduating from High School, Rick worked in Calgary for a period but the farm life drew him back. Rick took the Farm and Ranch Management course at Olds College and, after graduation, moved back to Rosebud to farm with his Mom and Dad. Rick and Helen were married July 7, 1995 and moved into the house they designed and built together. Farming, of course, is not a nine to five job. Despite the long, busy days of working on the farm, Rick found time for fun. Fun for Rick was building new equipment, retro-fitting old equipment, and anything that involved sawing, drilling, welding, nailing, cutting and soldering. Rick made time for important community commitments: Rosebud seed plant, the Hall board, and the Lions Club. He was also one of the few who contributed over one hundred donations to Canadian Blood Services. Very important to Rick was his dedication to the volunteer fire departments in both Rockyford and Rosebud. Rick trained hard and worked hard. Everyone will agree that his commitment was an integral part of the new fire hall in Rosebud. Rick’s death has devastated his family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. Mourning his death and treasuring his memory are his wife Helen, his siblings Donna, Roy (Karen), Judy (John), Linda (Andy) and Helen’s family. Rick also leaves behind his beloved uncle and aunt, Wayne & Iris Dresser, of Carbon; his cousins and their children and grandchildren. Rick leaves to mourn his cherished nieces and nephews: Kayla and Courtney Zachariassen and their mother Laurie Zorniak; Matt McKee; Liam, Sara and Daniel Wong. A service to honour Rick and his love for his family, friends and community was held on Monday, February 16, 2015 at the Rosebud Church at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, a donation can be made directly to the Rosebud Fire Association (P.O. Box 602, Rosebud, AB T0J 2T0). To send condolences, please visit Rick’s obituary at www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca