RICHARD ERNEST ARCHIBALD ALIAS ARCH

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RICHARD ERNEST ARCHIBALD ALIAS ARCH On July 24, 2002 after four years of playing the greatest baseball game of his life Rick Archibald finally hit that home run, and won the game of eternal life in Gods Stadium. With his children, Bronwyn, Taylor; and his guardian angel wife Joanne, at his side he was cheered on to his victory to home plate. Rick was an extraordinary man with a pure loyal heart, a strong sense of humour and a love for team-ship and comradery. He was known as The Arch, and played competitive sports of fastball, and slow-pitch for many years. One of the most recognized teams in Manitoba was the Petro Canada Classics which Rick lead to a gold medal in 1998 in Amherst, NS and brought the gold home for Manitoba after a 30 year drought. This team is being inducted to the hall of fame this year. This was an extraordinary achievement as Rick was diagnosed with his first cancer that summer. Rick was born in Toronto on August 1, 1950. One of the six children born of Ada and Ernie Archibald. He has left behind, sisters, Nina (Doug), Lillian, Sandy (Rick) Sharon; and special brother George (Sylvia), along with his many special nieces and nephews. Rick graduated from Bemidji state college in 1973 with a phys-ed degree. In 1974 he met the love of his life Joanne Hyra and was married in 1975. They celebrated 27 years of marriage, and had two beautiful children, Bronwyn and Taylor (His greatest gifts in life). Rick was very much loved by Joannes kin, and had a special relationship with Jean McRitchie, his mother-in-law and her siblings, Randy, David, Kenny, and Cindy. Also left to grieve are Todd and Shirley Sawchuk, Walter and Eve Kawka, Joanne and Mike McGibney, and many first and second cousins. Rick turned his career to real estate in 1976 and was highly respected by his peers for his ethics, professionalism, and his true team spirit. He spent the last ten years with the Remax on Stafford group, where strong bonds were created. He had so many special friends, all were loved. He wanted to thank all who supported him at a special benefit held on April 18, 2002 organized by Citi FM, Q94, and Remax. The benefit allowed Rick to live the quality of life the last six months with his family. A service celebrating Ricks eternal life will be held Monday, July 29, 3:00 p.m. Springs Church, 595 Lagimodiere Blvd. Special thanks to Dr. Pat Harris, Dr. Muldur, and their nurses from heaven at Riverview. And our very special Pastor Jeff Romas, words cannot express our gratitude to you. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Springs Church building fund or the CancerCare Manitoba. I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me - the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that great day of his return. 2 Timothy: 7-8 Bye Baby Kins, See You In Heaven! CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 27, 2002