May 19, 1943 - August 19, 2024

Richard D. Whitford, beloved husband of Betty Whitford (nee Bigelow), passed away on August 19, 2024 at the age of 81, in Cochrane, AB.

Richard was born on May 19, 1943 in Fort Smith, NT. He was a residential school survivor. As a youth, he worked on the summer barges, in forestry and then made his way north where he started working in Yellowknife and Behchoko. Richard and Betty were married in 1971. He was a leader for indigenous people in the NWT, a politician, and an entrepreneur. He retired with his wife Betty to Cochrane in 1992.

Richard will be remembered for sharing his plethora of stories - anytime and anywhere. Richard celebrated 20 years of sobriety and had great pride in his children and grandchildren. Richard had a passion for sports and politics - whether he was in the action, supporting the teams or watching on the sidelines. He also is remembered for his Christmas village - shared with family, friends and the community for over fifty years.

He is survived by his wife Betty, children Belinda (Tyler), Judy, Richard Jr., grandchildren Nikolas and Sophie, granddog Noda, two brothers Tony (Elaine) and Marc (Linda) as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his mother Emelia Gratrix-Mercredi, two brothers Dewey and Norman and sister Margaret (Leo).

The family would like to thank the staff at the Peter Lougheed and Foothills Hospitals in Calgary, Cochrane homecare, and Cochrane EMS for their care and support and ensuring Richard had a high quality of life in the last few years.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Diabetes Canada and the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Richard will be laid to rest in Yellowknife, NT at a prayer service on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 1PM at St. Patrick's Co-Cathedral. A reception will follow at the Baker Community Centre. A livestream of the service will be available.