Richard Michael Paul Gunn (aka Richie, Gunner and Brother to all) came into the world on February 26, 1983 and tragically fought his last battle at the age of 41 on June 25 2024.
Richie began life as a force to be reckoned with, determined and strong willed. He attended St. Vincent, St. Martin and Sacred Heart Schools in his formative years. He then attended St. Patrick High School until 2001 when he graduated with a senior football championship under his belt, an accomplishment he and his team were so proud of. He continued his education at Lakehead University, where he earned his Bachelor of Education degree.
All throughout his life, Richie was passionate about sports, especially hockey. He followed in his hockey idol Martin Brodeur’s footsteps and protected the net as a goalie for various Thunder Bay hockey teams throughout the years. His love for hockey began at a very young age, stickhandling as a toddler in the kitchen. He had such a good grasp of the game, he even knew when to give himself penalties and would sit in the drawer of the stove for his timeouts. This inspired him to talk about his beloved New Jersey Devils like he was on the team. He had similar sentiments when cheering on his favourite football team, the Detroit Lions. Anyone that ever had the privilege of debating sports stats with Rich quickly realised that they were going to lose.
Richie was a creative soul, sketching and drawing amazing works of art. He was passionate about music. He had an excellent ear and appreciated various types, styles and genres. His memory for music trivia was uncanny. This love prompted him to learn to play guitar, which would eventually become his outlet, release and voice when he could not find the words.
Fishing was another pastime that brought him joy and peace. Spending years at camp on Graham Lake, casting a line and reeling in a big one with his dad were some of his most cherished memories. He would continue to find sanctuary on the water with family and friends even after his dad’s passing.
Richie was Goofy, a joker, witty and full of charisma and charm. He was also a fighter, a friend and an empathetic and giving soul. He overcame various hardships in his journey on this earth and used his pain and all he learned along the way to help and inspire so many people and communities that had the privilege to know him. He worked in various facets of addiction recovery and mental health awareness and support. He truly saw all people; and if he loved you, you had his entire heart. He took tremendous pride in giving, doing and supporting others to the best of his ability. Regardless of who you were or what your story was, he would always leave a light on.
He was predeceased by his father Richard Gunn, Baba Anne Gunn, Dzidzi Paul Gunn, Gigo Mike Glena and many other family members and friends that he has been longing to share his laughter, smile and music with again.
He will be tremendously missed by his rocks and biggest cheerleaders; his mom Debbie Beaven, dad Alain Beaven, his sister Christie (Adrian) Andreacchi, his niece and nephew, Gabriella and Julian Andreacchi, that were his heart and soul, his Gram Doreen Johnson and grandma, Vicki Glena, along with so many aunts, uncles and cousins (both biological and chosen) and friends, that all cherished him and were loved so deeply by him.
“This is not goodbye, just see you later alligator.”
“The Lord said your work is done my son, no longer will you suffer and he called you home. I will miss you and carry you in my heart, always and forever.” Love your Mama Bear.
A Celebration of Richard’s life will take place on Saturday July 13, 2024, at the Superior Inn (formerly Victoria Inn) from 11:30 am - 3pm. A private interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the following agencies can be made in Richard Gunn’s name:
St Joseph's Foundation - Crossroads Center
PACE (People advocating change)
DEK(Dayna Elizabeth Karle) Addiction Recovery Foundation
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