(Dick)
(Mar. 10, 1943 - Sept. 11, 2009)
We regret to announce the passing of a great man, husband, father, grandfather and friend. He had a courageous battle with cancer and fought bravely to the end.
He is survived by his wife Sonja of over 40 years; daughters Shawn and Nony; son Helmer (Debbie); granddaughters Jassett, Maya and Avery; grandsons Phoenix and Maverick (stepson); brothers Jack, Fred and Bill. Dick is predeceased by his sister Sandy and brother Roy.
He was born in Chilliwack to parents William and Genevive Mussell. He was a lifelong resident of Chilliwack.
Early in his life as a cowboy, he loved the rodeo and working at Douglas Lake Ranch. He was an elite athlete for decades, having collected over 500 trophies and medals. Dick played premiere men’s soccer until he was 45 years old. He also loved to compete at logger sports, winning logger of the day countless times. He was renown for his strength, skill and toughness. He worked at Cattermole Timber as a boom man for 25 years before retiring.
As much as he was serious, he loved to have a good time. He loved the life of a cowboy, roping calves, riding broncos and breaking horses while working on the ranch. He was always trying to uncover the mysteries of the golf swing, billiards stroke and the axe throw. As a young man, his love of Johnny Cash and the cowboy culture influenced him to take up the guitar. Every weekend morning, he could be heard strumming and singing Johnny Cash. When karaoke became popular, it was a perfect combination of hobbies for Dick; going to the pub, and singing.
As one of his many crafts, he loved to work with his hands. A master knotsman, he used his skill for gill net fishing, cedar basket weaving and braiding horse tack. Later in his life he enjoyed jamming and playing music with his friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 19 at 11 am at Seabird Island Gymnasium, 2895 Chowat Road. It is just a few minutes past the Agassiz turnoff, eastbound on Highway 7 (Lougheed).