Richard Sandham
1945 – 2026

Rick was born in North Yorkshire, England, on Oct. 12, 1945.

At the age of five, “Ricky” boarded a ship with his mother, Nan, and travelled to Canada to begin a whole new life, settling west of Caroline on Uncle Charlie Masons’ homestead. Rick, his mom and Aunt Syble worked hard, raising sheep, a few goats for milk, many chickens for selling eggs and always grew a huge garden. It was there that Rick became an avid fisherman, walking as often as possible to the Raven River or Clearwater, seldom coming home empty-handed. It was here that he began to hunt grouse and deer. As a teenager, Rick was much in demand as a farmhand, especially at harvest time, finding plenty of work around the community. After graduating high school, he continued farming as the Bystroms’ hired man.

In 1967, after marrying Helen Barker and starting a family of his own, Rick began working in the oil patch on drilling rigs. Becoming a driller, he was often given the “green hands” to train. Many friends were made during these years; most had great nicknames and even better stories. Years later, Rick became an oilfield operator while getting back into farming around the same time; often burning the candle at both ends. Rick’s downtime was cherished and he shared it generously when he got some. Long change was for dirt bikes, camping, shooting black powder and travelling.

In 1996, Rick married Julie. They lived life together to the fullest. Together they enjoyed fishing, golfing, cards, rodeos, dancing, travelling and visiting with good friends and family. Grampa was very proud of all the grandchildren and always enjoyed attending the various sports and tournaments they played, even watching on the computer screen if unable to attend in person. He took great pleasure in watching for improvements the teams made, no matter which sport.

Rick believed any job was worth doing right, so that is how he lived. After oilfield retirement, Rick became a full-time farmer with his wife Julie on their Sunsetview Angus farm at Evergreen. If you would ask him his favourite colour, he would always reply, “black cows on green grass; that’s a colour, isn’t it?”

There are no words to explain the devastating loss we all feel. We wanted so much more time with Rick. Rick is lovingly remembered by Julie, his wife of 30 years; Kim and Dave, Jason, Joh and Erin; grandchildren: Hannah, Ayla, Madison, Ember, Caine, Ryder, Nevaeh, Landon and Andrew; as well as many good friends and relatives across the globe, too numerous to mention.

Until we meet again, rest easy, Rick; you’ve earned it. We will miss you every single day.

There will be no service held at this time.

Condolences may be forwarded to www.rockyfuneralhome.ca.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.