Obituary of Byron Richardson
Richardson: Byron F. -
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Byron Richardson.
Byron passed away peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham Campus, on Monday, January 6, 2025, at the age of 64.
Born on November 30, 1960, he was the cherished son of Bonnie and the late Bernie Richardson (2008).
Byron served his country proudly as a member of the Canadian military. His years of service reflected his unwavering discipline, humanity, and loyalty to his comrades. He carried these values with him throughout his life.
A lifelong fan of the Boston Bruins, Byron was also an avid participant in sports, excelling in baseball, hockey, golf, and swimming. His passion for athletics was matched only by his dedication as a swim coach for the Blenheim Blasts (Foxtails). As both a mentor and a friend, Byron’s guidance will forever be treasured by those whose lives he touched. His expertise and enthusiasm, particularly for teaching the butterfly stroke, left an indelible mark on countless swimmers.
Above all, Byron was a devoted family man. He was the beloved husband of Leean (née Bikus) for 33 wonderful years. He leaves behind his loving daughters Rachel Charbonneau (Ryan), Sarah Richardson, and Tess Richardson, as well as his grandson, Louie Byron Charbonneau. Byron is also survived by his dear sister Beth Schweitzer (Mark) and was a proud uncle to Keith, Kyle, and Matthew.
Byron will be fondly remembered for his infectious laughter, warm smile, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Honouring Byron’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Ridgetown Legion on Friday, January 17th from 3:00 - 5:30 pm. A private family interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Ridgetown, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Byron’s memory to New Beginnings of Chatham.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141
Grief Support
The death of someone we care about can be one of the most difficult experiences in life. These articles are meant to describe different types of grief; their intent is to help you understand your own, or to help you empathize with another person's grief.
LEARN MORE >
Our Locations
McKinlay Funeral Homes is pleased to offer services from locations in Ridgetown, Blenheim, and Chatham. We have a wide range of services available in these communities. Please click on the link below for more information about these facilities.
LEARN MORE >
Send Flowers
Our local florists are committed to offering only the finest floral arrangements, and are backed by their professionalism and prompt service. Allow us to take care of your expression of sympathy by connecting with our local florists through our website.
LEARN MORE >
Let Us Help You
Please feel free to browse our pages to learn more about pre-planning a funeral and grief support, as well as the traditional funeral and cremation services that we have to offer. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us at anytime, we are available by phone or e-mail, or drop by the office in person. We are always here to help.
Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
Blenheim: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-41
Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
Click HERE for the Bereavement Authority of Ontario's Consumer Information Guide.