Following a brief illness, peacefully, Richard Elliot Archer (Dick) passed away on January 1st, 2024 surrounded by his family. He will be dearly missed by his partner Susan, children, Chris (Tamie), Tim (Peter), Colleen (Ian); grandchildren Emily and Caiti; sister Cathy; nieces Carmen (Jamie) and Alanna (Jim). He was predeceased by his loving parents Gunda and Ed and wonderful wife, Elaine.
Dick was born in 1940 during a time of growing prosperity and challenges. He took the opportunities given to him to live life to its fullest. He managed to raise a busy, young family while accomplishing a distinguished career in finance. His strong business leadership started during his time with Monarch Life and later with Investors Group. Dick considered himself a proud Winnipegger and valued philanthropy, sharing his passion and knowledge of finance with many charitable organizations including serving on the board of the Winnipeg Foundation. Dick was always open to sharing his knowledge to encourage and mentor the people around him. He has left a legacy of inspiration and community spirit.
Dick always remained active by playing a variety of sports over the years including basketball, squash, tennis and golf. Dick also enjoyed travelling the globe with both work and with Elaine once retired. He shared fond memories of safaris in Africa, eco tours in the Galapagos, and excursions throughout Europe and Asia.
He was a wonderful family man, and sage advisor to his children. Special family memories where made during ski trips in Montana, summers at Victoria Beach, road trips across Canada and time in Florida. As life continued and became more complicated with age for Elaine, Dick took great care of her. He rose to the occasion to help her live a full life.
Dick led a rich life crossing paths with many people, making lifelong friends. Unforgettable memories were had with many neighbors in Winnipeg and Victoria Beach, childhood chums ‘The Lads’, ‘The Gourmet Club’, the Sarasota gang and teammates from all the sports his played. A special thanks to Susan Howard for making Dick so happy in his last few years. His family is very appreciative for making his life lighter right until the end.
If you wish to make a donation in his name, Dick would be honored if you gave to a charity supporting the community, the arts, or the environment, as he was passionate in all these areas. These include The Winnipeg Foundation, The Canadian Cancer Society, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, The United Way, WSO and the Lake Winnipeg Foundation.
He would also be happy to know that you gave a quiet helpful hand when someone needed it.
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
