End of an Era

Our dear friend & beloved spirit Richard Bennett has moved on to the next place, leaving in the ripples of his passing a community deep in admiration and respect of his power, his personality, his perseverance.

We come together this night to honour him. To gift back to his spirit our thanks & blessing, but a small token of all that he has given so many of us. I would like for this event to be a co-created gathering, which is to say, let us all decide what this event is – how the flow goes – what music we share – and so on.

I am intending to show a slideshow of our favourite images of Richard. If you have images you would like included we would love to see them. If there’s just a few you can get them to me via email (jason@sunsetlabs.ca) or if there’s many via dropbox (install it here if you don’t have it already: ) or personally via thumb drive or burned cd. We’ll need some help with setup, teardown, decoration if we choose. Please connect with me if you’d like to contribute in this way.

Here’s some thoughts & questions I have about our flow – please let me know your ideas & suggestions and as we together make decisions I’ll update the page.
> perhaps an opening gratitude circle at 8.30 or so?
> do we make it a semi-potluck? bring some snacks & teas?
> it would be great to have an altar – someone want to take that on? perhaps each of us could bring something to add to it?
> personally, i’d love to have his wheelchair there if possible
> do you think background music for awhile while we connect & share, either a fixed window of time for sharing experiences.. or just an open mic? and then move into dance music after? 10pm or something? who would like to dj?
> can everyone make sure that everyone knows about this event? family & friends. if you intend to come please RSVP “attending” to this event so we can have some sense of numbers
 

 

Richard Vernon BENNETT

BENNETT, Richard Vernon March 4, 1950 December 14, 2011 “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul. ” Our hero passed away in his sleep in the security of his own home, cared for by loving friends. Richard’s life was full of struggle due to his cerebral palsy, but he faced his trials with courage and tremendous resiliency. He had a big appetite for Life and he did not let his disability slow him down.

He was one of the first students to attend the Pearke’s Clinic where he received his education and much more. Richard went on to audit up to 4th year courses in Literature at UVIC in the 70’s. He was a familiar figure on campus, cheerfully pushing himself backwards in his wheelchair from one building to another. Richard’s fiercely independent nature was an inspiration to everyone. His intelligence was evident in the sparkle of his eyes, and, although speech was never easy, he had his own way of communicating. His circle of friends was wide and varied. His Faith gave him the capacity to see the best in people. He managed his own affairs right up to his passing with the assistance of his wonderful caregivers. He maintained deep and lasting friendships with many of these people. We are forever grateful for their patience and sincere commitment to Richard’s well being.

He looked forward to his Saturday night dancing at the Sunset Room, both for the music and for the love he was shown there. Richard was predeceased by his father, Denny and his mother, Mary. He is survived by his sister, Terri Thomas (Paul), his nephews, Dan (Kelly) and Keith. As his family, we will hold his spirit in our hearts and keep his light shining. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 on February 4th at Goward House (2495 Arbutus Rd.) In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Richard’s name to the charity of your choice.

Richard Bennett on Facebook
Dec29 Celebration of Life at Sunset Room