It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Richard Winfried Pawloff, who left us peacefully in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at the age of 87 years. Born in Germany in 1937, Richard experienced immense hardship at a young age, losing his parents to the devastation of the war and living the remainder of his childhood in an orphanage. Despite these challenges, Richard’s resilience led him to forge a new life in Canada at the age of seventeen, immigrating on his own in 1954. Shortly after his arrival, Richard joined the Canadian Armed Forces and was stationed in Alberta. His time in the military allowed him to pursue further education, where he earned both a Teaching certificate and a degree in science. Richard went on to share his passion for knowledge, teaching math and science at Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School, before taking on a consulting role in Computer Education with the Red Deer Public School District.
Richard married the love of his life, Connie (nee Chalifoux) and was immediately welcomed into the Chalifoux family as one of their own (Robert and Alice, Paulette, Ron, Denis). Richard shared fifty-four extraordinary years of marriage with Connie until her passing in 2019. Together, they adopted and raised two wonderful children, Karen and Rob. Richard was predeceased by both his beloved wife, Connie, and his son, Rob. He is survived by his daughter, Karen (Brent) Miller, and his two cherished granddaughters, Jordan and Paige. An accomplished woodworker, Richard not only renovated and expanded their heritage home on Red Deer’s Historic 56th Street but also crafted beautiful furniture, Christmas ornaments, and even a boat. His creativity and skill were admired by many. He had a deep love for poodles, particularly his loyal companion, Mishka, who was always by his side. Richard was a man of adventure, a passionate road tripper, outdoorsman, skier, and kayaker. He found joy vacationing with his young family in their Volkswagen Westfalia and going on camping trips with his closest friends, Jim and Doreen, making countless memories in the great outdoors. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the entire Healthcare team at the Fort Saskatchewan Care Community for the compassionate and competent care provided to Richard in his final days, as well as the support given to his family during this time. Richard’s life was a testament to strength, love, and resilience. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
In the words of Anne Frank, “Denke an all das Schöne, was in dir selbst und dich herum wächst und sei glücklich.” (“Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.”) A Private Celebration of Richard’s Life will be held. If desired, Memorial Donations in Richard’s honor may be made directly to the Alzheimer Society of Canada at www.alzheimer.ca. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Interment will be held at the Holy Cross Cemetery, Edmonton, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

• Date : 2024-10-16
• Location : (Red Deer) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com