It is with great sadness we announce Rick Askew climbed his highest and final mountain on Sept 16, 2015. Born Eric James Askew on July 6, 1921 in Bootle, England, he was predeceased by parents Robert & Ellen, brothers Robert and Douglas, daughter Maureen, daughter- in- law Lorraine Askew, grandchildren Dawn & Tara-Leigh Askew and Michael Pollack.
Rick is survived by his loving wife Betty, brother Cyril, son Bruce (Bette-Lou), son-in-law John Pollack (Kathy), grandchildren Ian, Karrie & Nicole, 7 great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Rick first came to Canada in 1941 to train with the RAF. He fell in love with the Kootenays when Clyde & Vera Emory provided him with R&R. Rick served in India and Burma as a Fitter as well as Tail Gunner. It was on Rick’s return to Nelson in 1947 he met Betty Emory. They married June 4, 1949 making their home in South Slocan with memorable summers spent at the cottage at 4 mile. In 2000 they moved to 4 mile permanently. Rick requiring more care, moved to Mountain Lakes in 2012. He was always such a tease with the grandchildren. We all admired his youthfulness and ability to remain physically active into his nineties.
Rick was a true outdoorsman and the first to ascend some of BC’s mountains. He had great passion for climbing, hiking, ski touring, skiing, sailing, windsurfing, cycling, golfing and mentored many. Rick worked at West Kootenay Power for 31 years retaining many friendships from there, young and old! He was a true inspiration to all.
We would like to thank the staff at Mountain Lakes Seniors home for their care and compassion.
A service of remembrance will be held at the Nelson United Church, 1:30 pm Saturday, Sept 26/15
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation at www.klhf.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompsons Funeral Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca