Passed away peacefully at Hospice Wellington on December 22nd, 2024, at the age of 74.
He was born and raised in the flat countryside of Chatham-Kent. The middle child of Charles Jordan and Gwendolyn Hunter, he spent many happy hours with his older sisters, Linda Daigneault (Louis) and Charlene Doyle (Murray), and two younger brothers, Ken (Annette) and Terry (Karen).
Ric was always actively exploring the woods, fields, and beaches of Kent County (including Rondeau Park) with his adventurous friends. He was also an avid athlete and could often be found on the sports fields and rinks in the Chatham area. In 1969, Ric left Chatham to attend the University of Guelph, where he met his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Burnett. They remained life partners and wonderful friends for 55 years. They were blessed with two cherished daughters, Elspeth (Vikas Nagaraj, and stepchildren Miya and Nisha) and Luchan (Jason Chong, and grandson Abbott). Ric loved his children and was proud of their achievements and their kind, generous natures.
A self-described "geography nerd," Ric loved the rolling landscape of the Guelph area. He and Betty spent many hours exploring the region's highways and byways, and they were never happier than when hiking on the Bruce Trail—always with a plan, a map, and a full day on the trail. They also enjoyed travelling and experiencing the diverse cultures of other countries. Ric loved people and cherished his many connections within the community. Known for his devotion to friendship, he was always surrounded by a loving network of friends.
Ric was a dedicated employee at the University of Guelph, spending 40 years at the Arboretum. He helped the Arboretum grow and witnessed remarkable changes, from open fields to the beautiful, treed landscape many enjoy today. As manager, he oversaw the installation of the beautiful gardens and helped establish the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest. Ric also devoted time to the university by serving as President of the Alumni Association and serving two terms on the Board of Governors. He appreciated how the university helped shape the unique character of the city. He was an active participant in Big Brothers for many years, and he and his "little brother," Kyle O’Drowsky, remained friends. Ric was passionate about his involvement in many of Guelph’s environmental, historical, and sports organizations. He strongly believed in the power and importance of community.
In the spring, when the world comes alive again, we will have a celebration of Ric’s life. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
Donations can be made to organizations Ric was passionate about: Hospice Wellington, the University of Guelph Arboretum, or the Bruce Trail Conservancy.
His wisdom, humour, and unwavering faith in the power of human connection will live on in those he inspired.
A tree will be planted in memory of Richard (Ric) H. Jordan in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest at the University of Guelph.