With breaking hearts and impossible sadness we announce the sudden passing of Rick Klingbell our beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend.
Left to cherish Rick's memory are his wife Sharon, daughters Sarah and Emily, his parents Dorothy (and Ron), Allan (and Nan), sister Tammy, extended family, and numerous friends.
Rick was born in Beausejour, Manitoba, on June 8, 1968. He lived most of his childhood in the North End, attending Machray Elementary, St. John's High School, and later went to Red River College. He was very active in sports thanks to CPAC and played Basketball, Football. Lacrosse, and Rugby. He was proud to go to Nationals one year to represent Manitoba in Lacrosse. He had many fond memories of living in the North End and was a North End Boy through and through.
He worked at Reimer Express Lines for a time where he met his wife, Sharon, and later worked at Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries – Video Lotto Division until his passing.
Rick and Sharon moved to the community of Tyndall/Garson in April 1998 and married in August of that year. He was the love of Sharon's life and best friend forever.
Rick got the surprise of his life when he found out they were having twins and was the proudest father. His daughters, Sarah and Emily were his pride and joy, and he packed a lifetime of memories in the short 18 years that he had with them. They were the light of his life and he was the light of theirs. He loved being an involved father. He frequently attended school trips with the girls, baked cookies for the class and drove them to early morning Cheer practices. He started coaching recreational soccer when the girls were 6 years old and coached them until just last Spring. He loved coaching both his girls and the kids in the communities of Tyndall, Garson, and Beausejour. He also loved his dog, Ella. They had a special bond.
Among his other passions were camping, fishing and exploring. His favorite spots in the world were Clear Lake, and Long Lake, Manitoba. He also loved the mountains and came alive when he was in Kananaskis and Jasper. The girls will forever cherish the Rockies trip they took this past summer with their Dad.
Rick was a member of the St. Jo's Wildlife Association where he had made many friendships. He and his family, extended family and friends went to the cabin at Long Lake where he was in his glory fishing, visiting and relaxing.
Rick also was a member of the Eagles, Tyndall Aerie. He was proud of the community he lived in and chipped in when he could to help.
He was also a member of Haystack Productions, when he decided in 2010 that he wanted to try acting in community theatre. There he made so many truly good friends and was in his glory. He played numerous roles in the dinner theatres with his favorite role being Jethro in 'The Beverly Hillbillies'. Most recently he was elected to be President of the Haystack Board.
Rick loved people and he loved to joke around – his laugh was infectious. He always knew someone anywhere he went and took the time to talk to everyone. He was loud, fun, energetic and made every event joyful. He would do anything for anyone without being asked and expected nothing in return.
Rick had a huge heart.
As per Rick's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of his life has been planned for Sunday November 18 at 1:00 p.m. in Beausejour at Brokenhead River Community Hall. 320 Veterans Lane (off of James Avenue).
If so desired, donations may be made to Haystack Productions. Donations can be mailed to: Haystack Productions, Box 1307 Beausejour, MB R0E 0C0.
Rick was a wonderful person. We enjoyed the fun times we had with him during July 1st and around the campfires Now they are treasured memories.
May our strength and love help you get through this difficult time.
Our sympathy to you. Love Dave, Brenda,Hayden,Janelle and Avery.
we were saddened to hear of Rick's passing sending our condolences at this time.
While I did not meet Rick, I had the privilege of teaching his girls for a few years. They are wonderful, caring, compassionate and hard working young women….the very fact of who these beautiful girls have become is the true testament to the dedicated and nurturing Father that I have heard him to be. My heart goes out to them and their Morher during this difficult time.
I was privileged to work with Rick at Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries, My co-workers and are are deeply saddened at the sudden passing of our friend Rick. Rick gave my son Daniel many years of happiness when he gave him a beautiful grey young male cat that Rick could no longer keep at his home. Rick had such a great sense of humour, we will miss him so much. My deepest condolences go out to Sharon, Emily and Sarah and the rest of the family.
My sincere condolences to Sharon, Emily, Sarah and family on the lost of your loved one. My heart goes out to you all at this most sadden time.
When I think of Rick, I think of a guy who always had a smile on his face. He was a total class act who loved his family, was a solid friend, and who gave to his community whenever the opportunity arose.
I do not recall a time where we saw each other, and didn't share a laugh. He was someone I admired greatly, and who I always looked forward to seeing.
I do know that he lived his life with purpose, and was always so grateful for all that he was blessed to have, and without a doubt, I am a better person for having known him.
My sincere condolences to Sharon, Emily & Sarah, and family.
Sharon, Emily and Sarah. Uncle Jim and I are sending you so much love and our deepest sympathy. Rick seemed to live his life fully, loving his family most, a great Dad, Husband and family man. He will be missed by all of us and he will always be remembered by all his extended family. Hugs to you, see you soon.
Rick I will miss you a lot my dear Nephew. We did not get to see enough of each other but you and your family were always on my mind and prayers and heart. I remember the time I was at yours and Sharon house. We had a lot of fun and laughs until our stomachs hurt and tears ran from our eyes. I will always love you xoxo any you will always be in my heart and prayers. God Bless Allof your wonderful Family and friends. I know you are safe in our fathers arms. You will be able to look down from HEAVEN AND WATCH OVER YOUR FAMILY.
My deepest condolences to the Klingbell family. I was a high school friend of his, and played on various school sports teams with him as well including football and rugby. I ran into him several times over the last 5 years at my various hotels, and we always chatted and got caught up with each other's lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family as I know he will be missed.
Blessings for family and friends, he will always be remembered.