In Loving Memory of Richard Andrew Young
September 27, 1973 – July 5, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Richard Young of Winchester, age 51, formerly of Nova Scotia. Beloved husband of Laurie Shea. Cherished Dad of RJ (Richard Joseph) and Isabelle Young. Loved and missed by his siblings Amanda Young (Mike Wentworth) and Bill Young (Richelle). Son-in-law to Shaun and Bev Shea and brother-in-law of Cheryl Grant (Andrew), Kelly Beaton (Alan), and Daniel Shea.
Rick will be fondly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as the extended Young and Shea families. He also leaves behind many close friends, especially Mike McKenna and Scott Briggs. Rick was predeceased by his parents, May (nee Nethery) and Richard Young, and by his nephew, Eli Young.
A proud East Coaster, Rick lived a life marked by dedication, strength, and a tireless work ethic. His commitment to serving others was evident in every role he took on. Most recently, he served with pride as a Fire Captain with the Winchester Volunteer Fire Department and as an Emergency Response Specialist with the Office of the Fire Marshal of Ontario. Rick wore each uniform with honor and represented his departments with dignity and professionalism.
Rick served as a Special Constable for 20 years, beginning at Carleton University and later with OC Transpo. A respected leader, he held the roles of Staff Sergeant at Carleton University and Transit Superintendent with the City of Ottawa, where he made a lasting impact on his peers and the many officers he mentored throughout his career.
Rick was a lifelong learner, continually pursuing training, certifications, and qualifications to be the most effective emergency responder he could be. His dedication to excellence extended beyond his own development—he was also a passionate educator who took pride in instructing and mentoring fellow first responders. On his final day, Rick was en route to teach at the Leeds and Thousand Islands Emergency Services Training Centre, a role that reflected both his expertise and commitment to service.
Rick was an active and engaged member of his many communities. He volunteered countless hours, was always ready to lend a helping hand, mentor a peer, or support a neighbor. His family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with RJ and Izzy.
Rick had a lifelong love of football and baseball. As a young athlete, he played both sports with enthusiasm and later coached numerous youth teams. We are so grateful that Rick had the opportunity to coach each of his children, sharing with them not only the games he loved but also the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the O.P.P., Paramedics and Staff at the Brockville General Hospital.
In keeping with Rick’s passion for sports and his commitment to youth, donations in his memory can be made to the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program. https://donate.jmpst.ca/DIYevent/richardyoungmemorial
A Celebration of Life to honor Rick Young will be held at Mountain Township Agricultural Hall 2967 Lough Road, South Mountain on Thursday July 17, 2025 at 11:00am. The Service may be viewed by following the link below
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613-989-3836). Online condolences may be shared at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.ca
11 Condolences for Richard Andrew Young
Condolences(11)
Robert Young says
July 9, 2025 at 8:24 pmDear Laurie, RJ and Isabelle I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Your, husband and Dad was my cousin and a very dear man. I wish we had seen each other more than we had but I know he’s at peace with his parents. He left us too young and I know he had more love to pass along. Bill and Amanda your family has experienced more grief than any family can be asked to bare but know you will be in everyone’s thoughts and your brother is with your Dad and Mom. All our thoughts and prayers and God Bless from myself Christina, Matthew, Megan, Emma and Danielle Young
Wanda Bochert says
July 9, 2025 at 8:34 pmLaurie, RJ, Isabelle and families,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Rick’s sudden passing. My memory went straight to his visits in the office and discussing the CU baseball team. May you find peace and comfort in the wonderful memories you have building your beautiful life and family together. You are all truly in my thoughts and prayers
Kimberly Weston-Martin says
July 9, 2025 at 10:31 pmTo Rick’s Family and Friends,
It is with profound sadness that I extend my deepest condolences on Rick’s passing. As the former Chief Special Constable at OC Transpo, I had the honour of hiring Rick and witnessing firsthand the dedication, strength, and compassion he brought to every role he served in.
Rick embodied the very best of what it means to serve. His integrity, humility, and unwavering work ethic left a lasting mark on the Special Constable program and on the countless individuals he mentored and inspired throughout his career. He was not only a respected officer and colleague, but also a true leader and a kind-hearted soul whose presence uplifted those around him.
To Laurie, RJ, Isabelle, and the entire Young and Shea families, please know that Rick’s memory lives on in the hearts of so many who had the privilege of working alongside him. May you find strength and comfort in the love that surrounds you and the lasting impact Rick made in this world.
Donna Pereira says
July 10, 2025 at 9:00 amMy sincere sympathies to Laurie and family.
Blanka Vallillee says
July 10, 2025 at 10:25 amMy deepest condolences to you, Laurie, RJ, and Isabelle. May your love for one another give you the strength you need, and may the countless beautiful family memories comfort your hearts. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Blanka
David Sterritt says
July 10, 2025 at 10:29 amDear Laurie. Extending to you and family my most sincere condolences on Rick’s sudden and tragic passing.
Bob Hobson says
July 10, 2025 at 10:56 amOur deepest condolences from all of us here at Mountain Orchards. Our thoughts and hearts are with you during this difficult time.
Much love.
Joe Moores says
July 10, 2025 at 5:16 pmDear Laurie, RJ and Isabelle,
We are so deeply sorry for Rick’s passing. I know we grew apart over the years, but we have many very happy memories spending time with you and Rick. Renee and I have been talking about all of the laughs we shared when the kids were younger and have been looking at some of the pictures we took back then.
I would often run into Rick at the parking lot outside of the Detachment and we would talk for a long time, and had a few good hard laughs about some story one of us would have about work. He was always so happy to tell me how Izzy and RJ were doing. I am truly going to miss those conversations.
Rick was truly one of a kind, and I am a better person for having known him. I will always be very proud to have called him a friend and I will miss him dearly.
With our most sincere sympathies,
Joe, Renee, William and Charlotte.
Mary Shea Conrod/Colin Conrod says
July 10, 2025 at 9:15 pmTo Rick’s wife, children and family.
We are so deeply saddened by the news of Rick’s passing. The Young family were our neighbors in Eastern Passage and I had the privilege of being a part of the team with him as he coached the young ladies to many championships.
Rick was always there for everyone who needed his support and assistance. Though we have not been in touch for many years, it came as no surprise when reading his obituary as to his many accomplishments.
Our hearts and condolences go out to Laurie, RJ and Isabelle.
Mary Shea Conrod and Colin Conrod
Alicia says
July 15, 2025 at 4:23 pmDear Laurie, RJ, and Isabelle,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Rick was a remarkable person, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. I hope you can find comfort in the love that surrounds you and the strength that lies within you.
Alicia
Peggy Pace-Romans says
July 21, 2025 at 11:56 amTo The Family I would like to send thoughts and prayers to all of you at this very sad time. Rick was my Ball Coach with one of The girls Ball Teams in Eastern Passage. He was a great coach . Rest in peace Rick Heather Romans
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