Obituary of John Ivan Richards

John Ivan (Buddy) Richards 88 of 33 First Street Trenton passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2024, in the Palliative Care unit of the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 20th, 1935, in the family home on Glass Street Trenton, he was the son of the late Daniel William Richards and the late Mabel Marie (Pellerin) Richards. Dad, like many of his generation, entered the work force at the age of 16 in 1951. His first employment was at the Coca-Cola bottling plant located on Main Street Trenton. He started out filling the vending machines at the former Trenton Works and worked his way up to delivery driver. Dad was blessed with a photographic memory and an amazing ability to recount people, events, times and dates. He loved to reminisce about all the wonderful people he met delivering pop to the local businesses throughout Pictou County. In 1966 an opportunity arose for him to work at the former Trenton Works. He jumped at the chance and began a career that lasted 32 years until his retirement. He worked primarily in the Wheel and Axle Department and took great pride in his work. In his younger days dad enjoyed dancing and being well dressed. At that time there were dances almost every day of the week. It was common for no alcohol to be served so other than being tired he always made it to work. Dad also enjoyed following the local sports teams. Many of the local star athlete’s dad knew and he would frequently praise their accomplishments. One of his favorite lines was “When Softball was King.” Anyone that knew dad would frequently see him walking on a regular basis up until he was 85. It would be nothing for dad to walk to The Highland Square or walk the loop via the Trenton Connector. Dad also had a real passion for gardening. He took great pride (despite the deer) in beautifying his property on First Street. We would like to thank all the healthcare professionals and support workers for their exemplary care provided to dad. He was always treated with respect and dignity. He loved each and everyone one of you and always appreciated everything you did for him. A special thank you to his neighbor Christine MacInnis who was his guardian angel. She watched over him and provided dad with home cooked meals, baked goods and sweets. Dad is survived by his sons Danny (Sherry) Richards Stellarton, Johnny (Mary) Richards Abercrombie, Robert (Sheryl) Richards Truro, Scottie Richards New Glasgow, Jamie Richards Amherst, daughter Lovey (Kevin)Aucoin New Glasgow Mother of his children Dianne. Grandchildren Kayla (Matt) and Hannah, Nicola(Scott) and Brianna (Stephanie), Joel and Zachery, Reese and Elliot Great Grandchildren Poppy, Renley and Nash Brother Billy (Paula) Trenton, Sister Dolores (Lou) Sydney Dad was predeceased by his parents, sister Marjorie (Queenie)MacDonald, Brother- in- law Earl Macdonald, Brother- in- law William (Willie) Martin, Nephews Philip Martin and Carl MacDonald Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place at the HW Angus Funeral Home Chapel, 256 King Street, New Glasgow on July 6, 2024 at 2pm with Fr. Tom MacNeil presiding. A reception will follow the service in the funeral home. The Graveside Service will be held at the Christ the King Cemetery, Trenton following the reception. Donations in dad’s name may be made to the Aberdeen Palliative care Society or a charity of your choice.