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It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our dear father, in his 78th year, on Monday, December 20th, 2010. Although he had been ill for the past year, he had borne his illness patiently and bravely.

Richard (better known as “Dick”) is predeceased by his parents, Æmelius and Ephie Elizabeth (nee Reid) Jarvis, and his brothers, William, John, and Robert. He was the grandson of the prominent Toronto financier and yachtsman, Æmelius Jarvis.

Mourning his passing are his six children: Samuel, Shaughn, Jonathan, Æmelia, Maggie and Richard, twelve grandchildren, and his partner, Mary Elizabeth Turner. He will always be remembered by the mother of his children, Margaret Trono.

Dick was a proud graduate of Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph. He practiced first as a country veterinarian, then continued his practice with small animals at his clinic, The Sudbury Animal Hospital, where his staff fondly referred to him as “The Legend”. Dick had a great love for all animals, and family pets were often strays in need of a loving home. Two of his favourites were Ho Chi Minh, a one-eyed grey tabby barn cat whom Dick adored, and long-time canine companion, Wacky-motto.

Dick had a knack for engaging people in conversation and made friends everywhere he went. His wit, sense of humor and fun endeared him to many. He led a happy, grateful life, and we will forever miss him. Our gratitude is extended to the doctors and nursing staff at Victoria General Hospital for their exceptional care and friendship over the past year.

There will be a private family gathering in Toronto this summer. Donations in memory of Dick may be directed to his favourite charity, Care Canada (www.care.ca), a charity he greatly admired and supported.