ERIC GARDINER

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ERIC GARDINER "RICK" HONEY On Saturday, February 24th the "On Air" sign went out for Rick Honey for the last time, silencing one of Vancouver radios most popular personalities, bringing him peace from the battle he waged with cancer. Rick was born in Winnipeg on May 13, 1947, the eldest of four children, to Kenneth and Barbara Honey. He attended Strathmillan Elementary, Golden Gate middle school and Silver Heights Collegiate. He showed an early flair for entertainment as a soloist with the Winnipeg Boys Choir and later, drummed for the Sea Cadet Corps marching band. He rose to prominence in the Winnipeg Rock scene in the 60s, drumming and singing with some of Canadas best-known rock stars. Rick had a true passion for entertaining. He began his career in radio at the age of 18 at Winnipegs CJOB. He moved on to stations in Kenora, Thunder Bay and Sydney, Nova Scotia before settling in Vancouver as a "Boss-Jock" at CKLG in 1969. As his popularity grew, he took on the Afternoon Road Show at CKNW, the largest and most listened to station in western Canada. He was a favourite there for twenty-five years. After a brief period at STAR FM he moved into the "morning" slot at "Unforgettable 600 AM". His final broadcast was two days before his passing. When not in front of the radio mike, Rick was a favoured host for local live functions and TV shows. He was a master at stand up comedy and magic, recently winning the prestigious "Magician of the Year 2000" award. Rick was a proud Knight of the Order of St. Johns. He had a special place in his heart for the Vancouver Police Pipe Band and was inducted as an honorary member in October 2000. Ricks happiness was fulfilled when he married the true love of his life, Gale, on December 8, 1984. His biggest fan, Gale was always at Ricks side. Together, they were a "team" both privately and professionally. Family came first to Rick, his contentment being his children and grandchildren. "Poppa" loved to delight his grandchildren, always prepared to amaze them with a new magic trick stuffed in his pocket. During Ricks illness, Gale was tireless and relentless in her support. She was his "Angel". At home, with Gale and his children at his side Rick went to his eternal peace. Rick was predeceased by his grandparents Gudmundur and Begthora Goodman, Herbert and Vera Honey and parents, Kenneth and Barbara Honey. He is survived by his loving wife Gale, daughters Shannon Smith (Kirk) and Jennifer and Kayce, son John (Kirstie), and grandchildren Chelsea and Spencer, Jessica and Miranda, brothers Gary (Arlene) and Dana and sister, Karen, numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services to be held at Christ Church Cathedral, Thursday, March 1 at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow service at Four Season Hotel, Vancouver, British Columbia.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 27, 2001