June 18, 1951 - November 6, 2024
Patricia Carolyne Richards (“Trish”), née Kwapisz, was born on June 18, 1951, in Windsor, Ontario, and passed away on November 6, 2024, at Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario, after a short but courageous battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS).
Trish grew up in Windsor and dedicated much of her life to raising her family in Bruce County, spending cherished years in Hanover and Kincardine. After retiring to Stratford she ultimately settled in Brantford to be closer to her son Zach and his husband James. She graduated from the University of Windsor with a double major in Psychology and Sociology. She went on to become the Executive Director for Kincardine Big Brothers & Big Sisters and to proudly establish her own business, PlayCare Kids Club, where she created a nurturing space for children.
A lover of the arts, Trish moved to Stratford to fulfill her passion for theatre by working for the Stratford Festival, where she contributed her energy and love for the performing arts. Her bright, charismatic presence, unforgettable smile, quick wit and sense of humour brought joy to everyone who knew her. She was an avid reader and a devoted animal lover.
Trish is survived by her beloved children: Alanda-Joy, Zach, Bob, Tom, and Shaun, her many grandchildren, along with her cherished cat, Neeko. She is lovingly reunited with her parents, Ed and Mary Kwapisz, and the many pets who enriched her life.
A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Details to be announced. A memorial bench in Trish’s honour will be placed in Stratford in the new year.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Trish’s memory be made to the Alley Cat Café in Stratford (www.alleycatcafe.ca). Donations may be made through Rutherford Cremation & Funeral Services, 804 Ontario St., Stratford. 519-271-5062.
