Edward Richenhaller

Richenhaller, passed away at the time of the closing school bell on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, in Swan River, Manitoba, at age 85. Edward was born on December 2, 1938, the youngest of three children of Joseph and Teresia (Mikolayenko). He was predeceased by his father (1980), mother (1989), brother Mike (1998), son-in-law Brad (2008) and eldest brother John (Jan 2024).  Ed will be missed as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, teacher, coach, leader, negotiator, golfer.

Ed and the love of his life Patricia (Fedirchuk) met while growing up in Ethelbert. They were married in Ethelbert on October 11, 1963.  In 1965, they bought a home and moved to Kenville, Manitoba.  In 1966, daughter Laurie (Hughes) made three and in 1969, son Daniel completed the family. Early family life at the Richenhallers’ was active, filled with joyful times and friends who were family.  Ed was a loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather, offering an ear, and a hand whenever it was needed. Later in life, he embraced Dan’s new family, and enjoyed getting to know his new granddaughters.

Raised on a farm, young Eddie developed a passion for farming - which served him well as the reliable perennial harvest helper on the Fedirchuk fields until the family farm was sold in 1979.  He took much pride and satisfaction in doing the hard work necessary to get important jobs done. “Richenhallers are workers not entertainers”, was his famous comical line he stood proudly by. This strong ethic made him a ‘go-to’ in the community for neighbours and friends.

As a youngster, then as a teacher Ed enjoyed sports. In his youth he participated and competed in sports including hockey, high jump, baseball, football, taking great pride in his accomplishments. As a teacher Edward focused his passion on coaching of various teams. He led his family to sports, whenever he could. Above all, golf was his #1 game; a lifelong passion he enjoyed and travelled to play with close friends his whole life.  His golf achievements included two hole-in-ones.

Becoming a teacher was the most obvious career choice for Ed, and his teaching career included years spent at Loon Lake, Harrowby, Kenville, Benito, Leaf Rapids and Birch River before retiring in 1992 (age 53). Teaching was his true calling; he was well loved by his students and well into his later years, former students approached him and shared fond memories.  Mr. Richenhaller had an impact on thousands of students, and his students made a remarkable impact on him. Even decades after retirement, Ed’s ability to recall details about students, including their families, names and ages of their siblings was remarkable. His reliable memory blessed him through his entire life, entertaining those around him with his uncanny precision.

Dedicated to his community, along with his wife, Pat and children, Ed attended and supported the United Church in Kenville and Swan River.  He was a member of the Swan River Curling Club and Golf Club, and volunteer with Meals on Wheels. Ed served on the board of Manitoba Teachers’ Society and was an active member of the Retired Teachers’ Association.

Remembering Ed with love and admiration are his wife Pat, children Laurie, Dan (Marie); grandchildren Makena, Tian and Ashrel; numerous nephews and nieces; and friends near and far.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday July 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM from the Chapel of Swan Valley Funeral Services 363 Kelsey Trail, Swan River, MB.