RICHARD RUSSELL PETER STARDOM

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RICHARD RUSSELL PETER STARDOM

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Stardom on August 14, 2026, in Grand Forks, British Columbia at the age of 82.

He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Mary (Minnie) Stardom; as well as his sister, Betty. His love and legacy are cherished by his wife, Karan Moore; his children, John (Holly) and Murray (Kathy); Karan's children, Jason, Michelle (Andrew), and Brent (Indy); his siblings, Lillian, Christine (Ian), and Don (Mary); his grandchildren, Max, Leo, Hannah, Henry, Heidi, and Maisy; and the rest of his extended family.

Richard was born in Selkirk, Manitoba on September 15, 1943. He spent most of his youth growing up in the family home in Seven Sisters before eventually moving to Winnipeg. There, in 1969, he married his first wife, Eleanor Minton, and later had two children together, John and Murray. He completed degrees in biology and zoology at the University of Manitoba, supporting his studies by running traplines. He worked for over 25 years with the Government of Manitoba's Department of Natural Resources, first as a fur biologist, then as an urban wildlife specialist, and finally as a big game biologist. He was also an early leader of the Manitoba Peregrine Falcon Recovery Project, an initiative that brought him great pride and personal satisfaction.

Outside of his work, Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and many outdoor activities. He was the co-president of the Manitoba Chapter of The Wildlife Society, sat on the board of the Winnipeg Rock and Mineral Club, and was a member of the Manitoba Wildlife Rehabilitation Organization, where he met his second wife, Karan. Together, they moved to Petersfield, MB in 1997 and began Stonebridge Farms. Upon his retirement in 1999, he and Karan embarked on a grand adventure, relocating the farm to the southern interior of British Columbia. He spent several years in Christian Valley and Rock Creek before settling in Grand Forks in 2007. He spent many years raising chickens, peacocks, sheep, horses, rabbits, and other livestock, in addition to haying and maintaining the infrastructure of the operation.

Richard was a true renaissance man, a passionate outdoorsman, and naturalist. His knowledge of flora and fauna and his dedication to conservation of species was the essence of his character. His hobbies embodied his love of land and nature, his creative spirit, and his sense of whimsy. He was a fervent gardener, orchardist, rock collector, gold panner, and creator of willow furniture and stained glass art. He loved "hunting for treasures" and would often frequent garage sales, flea markets, and auctions for perfect finds. He also shared the bounty of his gardens with all and had a reputation for rehoming zucchini in random unlocked vehicles in downtown Grand Forks.

Richard loved road trips, especially travelling to the Pacific Coast. He had a strong affinity for the ocean and was particularly fond of beachcombing and the sounds of seagulls. Richard embraced his Ukrainian heritage, especially the food! He also loved dim sum and desserts...and ALWAYS cake.

Richard is best remembered as a quiet, gentle, and generous man who put others first; his family was everything to him. Wherever he was, he would always take time to connect with neighbours, sharing a coffee and conversation, lending a hand, and keeping in touch.

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of Boundary Hospital and Hardy View Lodge for their compassionate care. Special thanks to all of the friends and family who have journeyed from near and far in the recent past to offer their love and support to Richard. A heartfelt hug to his dear friend Glennis, who spent countless hours visiting him at the Lodge and bringing him his favourite goodies.

In accordance with Richard's wishes, cremation has taken place. He did not wish to have a service. If friends and family so choose, donations can be made to a charity of choice in Richard's memory. He was a lifelong supporter of the World Wildlife Fund, the Canadian Wildlife Federation, the Canadian Red Cross, and Covenant House (Vancouver).

As Richard always said, "Life is short, eat dessert first."

Keep the fire going sweetie, we will see you soon.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2026