Errol Richard Anderson

He leaves to mourn his wife, Ruth, to whom he was married for 71 years. Also to grieve his death, three children Diane (John), Gary (Robin) and Donna (Jeff). He leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Richard was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, on July 26, 1933, to Dorothy Margret Kion and Errol Victor Anderson. He was the oldest of five siblings, he is survived by Carole (Karl), Vern, and David (Martha). He was predeceased by Barry in 2013. Richard also has numerous nieces and nephews who remember him fondly.

At a very early age, Richard learned that many people in Mexico did not have the Bible written in their own language. His desire was to translate the New Testament into the language of one of these groups and began his studies in linguistics at the age of 20 with Wycliffe Bible Translators.

Richard and Ruth were married in 1955 and embarked on a mission in Mexico that lasted 31 years. During that time, Richard translated the New Testament into the Cuicateco language. He also compiled a Spanish-Cuicateco dictionary for school children to learn Spanish.

In his retirement, Richard taught English as a second language to countless foreign students. He had a passion for languages. He is remembered as a teacher from Mexico to China.

As his physical health failed him in his later years, he continued to have a sharp mind, a great sense of humour and love and concern for his family.

The family would like to thank the staff at Prince of Peace Manor, Chinook Hospice and the Dawson Agecare for all their wonderful care Richard received.

A Funeral Service will be held at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

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