Richard Sowden

Sowden, Richard John Born on September 6, 1956 in London, England. Passed away peacefully at Hospice Wellington, age 58, on January 9, 2015, with his loving family by his side. Son of the late Tony and Fay Sowden. Devoted husband to Sharon for 35 years. Most affectionate father to James, Katherine and Christine (Kyle). Brother of Anne Sowden (Terry). Son-in-law of Sheila and the late Tom Ronayne of England. Brother-in-law to Lynn and Paul, Dianne and Brian, Nicky and Mandy. Beloved uncle to Graham (Michelle), Mina, Benjamin, Hannah, Emily and Molly. He will be sadly missed by his great nephews Benjamin and Jack. He held dear all of his extended family, near and far, and so many friends and colleagues. Richard was a remarkable person who courageously fought an extremely rare form of cancer for 8 long months. A highly accomplished pilot for 40 years, he was a senior Captain with Air Canada and a member, and former president of the Great War Flying Museum (Brampton). One of the first graduates of the aviation and flight technology program at Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology, Richard was an active alumnus of the college, sharing his passion for aviation through teaching and mentoring future pilots. A leading expert in wildlife hazard mitigation for airports, and recognized by Transport Canada and NAV Canada as a top flight safety expert, Richard excelled in all aspects of his prestigious career. A pioneer in the field of aviation fuel management, Richard worked with General Electric’s Fuel and Carbon Solutions division and many other companies to enhance operational efficiency. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Tom and Suzanne Fraser, Hospice Wellington and all those individuals who supported Richard and his family during this journey. Family and friends will be received at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph (519-821-5077) on Friday, January 16th from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. A celebration of Richard’s life will held at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, on Saturday January 17th from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., reception to follow. Condolences may be left online a www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to Hospice Wellington (Guelph) and the Great War Flying Museum (Brampton). Leonardo da Vinci said, “Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been and there you will always long to return.”(Richard has returned)

A celebration of Richard's life will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2015 in the Hart Chapel.