Gary Keith Riczu, long-time resident of Grande Prairie, passed away on July 2, 2015 at the age of 59 years. Gary was born in Peace River on February 22, 1956 and attended school there before he went on to NAIT where he received his B Pressure Welding Ticket. He then went on to work in the Alberta oilfield as a pipeline welder, and continued into manufacturing equipment for the oil and gas industry. Gary’s many interests included, hunting, fishing, cooking, golfing and was an avid poker player too! Gary was a passionate fan of the Edmonton Oilers and at one time the Montreal Canadiens. Gary enjoyed gardening and found out how pesky deer can be. He enjoyed good friends, a good joke, beer or whiskey after a hard day’s work, and home cooked meals. Gary was survived by his children Chad Morrice, Maygan Welander, Dana Riczu, and special friend Alex Bateman; seven grandchildren; his siblings Dorothy (Ivan) Paul, Rose Brace, Kenny Riczu, Patricia (Kelly) MacGregor, Jody Riczu, Sheri (Vance) Hulan, Lori Riczu (Kurt Buse); his many nieces and nephews, as well as his Uncle Anthony Riczu, and Aunts Irene Riczu and Pauline Evans. He was predeceased by his parents Mike and Pauline Riczu. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Five Mile Hall in Grande Prairie on July 11 at 1PM. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to the charity of your choice. Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home Grande Prairie 780-830-7742 www.bearcreekfuneral.com