Richard William Robinson

Richard “Rick” Robinson, affectionately known throughout Salmon Arm as “Ranger Rick,” passed away on August 26, 2026. Originally from Kitchener, Ontario, Rick made Salmon Arm his home and became a familiar and much-loved presence in the community.

Rick was gentle, kind, sincere, and big-hearted, with a memorable little laugh. He had a deep love of nature, camping, making home made "monster burgers", bicycles, and music and visual art/painting. Often seen walking or cycling through Salmon Arm in his red jacket, dark sweats, boots, and signature hat, Ranger Rick was someone people recognized, remembered, and cared about.

British Columbia had called to Rick for many years. During a childhood family camping trip, the family made it as far west as Winnipeg. Rick later set out to complete that journey for himself, eventually making British Columbia his destination and Salmon Arm his home.

Music became one of the most important threads in Rick’s life. He played guitar, wrote his own songs, taught himself recording software, and devoted thousands of volunteer hours over approximately 20 years to his community and CKVS 93.7 FM, Voice of the Shuswap. He researched, recorded, and produced more than 400 radio programs, including the classic-rock program Darklighter—where he was also known as “Rockin’ Rick Robinson”—and the country program Little Town Big Sky, hosted as Ranger Rick.

Even during difficult periods, Rick remained committed to his programs. He was known to record while in hospital and mail USB drives and CDs to the station. Radio gave him purpose, and he believed deeply that “the show must go on.” It also allowed those who loved him in Ontario to hear his voice and know that he had carved out his own place in the world.

Through his programs and his presence in the community, Rick promoted the Roots and Blues Festival, supported first responders, encouraged responsible drinking, and spoke often about world peace. He also held a deep respect for the RCMP.

Rick was a son, brother, uncle, friend, neighbour, volunteer, musician, and a very special soul.

He is survived by his father, Steve Robinson; his sister, Stephanie Robinson; his niece, Michelle Robinson, and her children, Izayah and Amiri; his nephew, Ben Brilhante, and his children, Amelia and Haven; and the many friends and community members who became part of his extended family.

Rick was predeceased by his mother, Cecile Jeffries (Carrière).

[Service or celebration-of-life information will be added when confirmed.]

The family extends its sincere thanks to the hospital staff and the team at Interior Health for the care and compassion shown to Rick.

There are not enough words to express the family’s gratitude to CKVS 93.7 FM, Voice of the Shuswap. The station and its team were enormously important to Rick. The family is deeply grateful to everyone who welcomed Ranger Rick, encouraged him, valued his contribution, and helped his voice travel across the Shuswap and all the way home to Ontario.

The family also offers its profound gratitude to Gerald of Shuswap Clothing, whose kindness became a beacon of light for both Rick and his family. Gerald became part of the family, and his compassion made a meaningful difference in Rick’s life while bringing great comfort to those who loved him. That kindness will never be forgotten.

Rick’s life was not always easy, and he lived with mental health challenges. Speaking about this openly is one way to honour him and to help reduce the stigma that can prevent people from seeking support. Mental health challenges are part of many people’s lives, and they do not diminish a person’s worth, character, or capacity to contribute.

The care, kindness, and support offered to Rick by people throughout Salmon Arm are deeply inspiring. His story shows how meaningful it can be when a community welcomes someone, recognizes their gifts, and makes room for them to participate and belong. The family hopes Rick’s life will inspire others to reach out, get involved, and offer that same spirit of compassion and inclusion to those around them.

Rick found purpose through music,nature, service, and human connection. His recorded programs will continue to carry his voice across the Shuswap—a lasting reminder that every life holds complexity, every person deserves dignity, and belonging can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.