RICK BOKSTEYN

It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Richard ‘Rick’ Boksteyn on Saturday, July 11, 2020. Rick leaves to cherish his memory: wife, Linda of 36 years; sons, Derik (Janelle) and Ben (Janae) and their daughter, Shelby; brothers, John (Deidra), Michael (Debbie) and Bradley and his sister-in-law, Gwynn (Robert) Boksteyn. Rick also leaves to mourn Linda’s sisters, Trudy (Eric) Papsdorf, Nellie (Don) Starke and Betty (Lloyd) Bischke as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Rick was predeceased by his parents, John and Yvette Boksteyn and brother, Daniel (Gwynn).

Rick was the rock of his family. He was especially proud of his two sons, Derik and Ben. Rick was an incredible attentive parent and loved his family unconditionally. His boys were his greatest treasure and he cherished every day with them. Rick spent many weekends cooking and preparing great feasts for his family. His love language was good food prepared by Dick. His most recent joy was the arrival of his first grandchild, Shelby.

Rick was employed by the City of Medicine Hat as a fire fighter for 35 years and recently retired. He was a dedicated firefighter and took his responsibilities very seriously. Rick was a coordinator for the dive rescue team for many years and coordinated many search and recovery missions in open water and ice incidents. He loved his job and enjoyed mentoring the new members with the fire service and serving the community. Rick truly valued the brotherhood within the department and was proud to call them his fire family.

Rick was born and raised in Medicine Hat, Alberta. He attended St. Louis School, McCoy High School and Medicine Hat College. During Rick’s younger years he had exceptional athletic abilities participating in competitive swimming, playing junior football for the Medicine Hat College Rattler Football team and playing Rugby for the Medicine Hat Ogres. When Rick decided to hang up his cleats from football and rugby, his love for the sports continued in a coaching capacity. He was a defensive coach for the McCoy Colts football team for 36 years. He had a true talent to inspire young players and was particularly interested in developing the players that needed extra encouragement and attention. Rick demonstrated exemplary leadership as a coach. He was generous with his time and support to the team. He strongly resisted any individual recognition or attention acknowledging his efforts. Instead he insisted focusing success on the combined efforts of players, coaches, teachers and parents. There was no “I” in team where Rick was concerned. Coaching was Rick’s greatest pleasure. He often said that coaching was a gift that allowed him to be 16 again.

Rick had a passion for a collection of sport and luxury cars. He owned a collection of firebirds and in the last few years, began purchasing large comfort cars which were often referred to as “boats”. He was especially proud of his latest purchase of a 1978 Lincoln continental just prior to his illness. Rick was a good friend to all who knew him.  He enjoyed time with friends drinking a Lucky at his garage and hosting tailgate get togethers. Rick never passed up an opportunity to have fun and spend time with his friends. He was well known in the community for his positive attitude and love for life. Rick lived 100 years in 62 and lived his life his way! He will be greatly missed by all that new him.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Friday, July 17, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. A Celebration of Rick’s Life will be held at the Methanex Bowl, 2000 Division Avenue North, Medicine Hat on Saturday, July 18, 2020. Kick-off will be at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Mike Landry officiating. Masks are mandatory and will be provided if you don’t have one. Please do not attend if you have traveled recently.  Plans are being made for the service to be live streamed and details will be announced in the coming days. Memorial donations in Rick’s name may be made to the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre c/o Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation, 666 -5 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 4H6; McCoy Colts Booster Club c/o McCoy High School, 202 – 8 Street N.E., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 5R6; Kidney Foundation of Canada, 6007 – 1A Street S.W., Calgary, AB., T2H 0G5 or to the charity of one’s choice.