Rick Kowal passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at the age of 54. Rick attended Crooked River School from Kindergarten through Grade 9, and later Tisdale Composite School for his high school years.

From a young age, Rick had a strong work ethic. While still in high school, he spent his spare time working at the service station in Crooked River, pumping gas and helping with minor mechanical repairs. After graduation, he continued working in hands-on roles, including time at Greenwater Provincial Park and at a grain elevator in Mistatim.

That fall, Rick enrolled at the University of Regina, but it didn’t take long for him to realize that university life wasn’t for him. He much preferred being outdoors and working with machinery. He went on to take a welding course at Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon, where he graduated as one of the top students in his class.

Rick was also a natural athlete who excelled in every sport he played. He earned numerous awards for achieving top points at field meets. Hockey was one of his greatest passions. Despite being one of the smaller players on the ice, he played defense with determination and grit. He never backed down, and very few could get around him or take the puck away. Rick played minor hockey in Bjorkdale and later in Tisdale, where he played a key role in winning two Provincial Championship titles.

Rick began his career with Central Caissons in Saskatoon. In 2005, he joined Agri Foundations, and in 2012, he moved to Allan Foundations. He truly enjoyed his work and took pride in what he did. More than anything, he valued the people he worked alongside. While he had great relationships with all his colleagues, he often spoke of his close friendship with Mike Davio.

One of Rick’s proudest moments in life was the birth of his daughter, Shaelyn. He was incredibly proud of her and was so excited to see her become a nurse. It meant a great deal to him, and he had deeply hoped to be there to watch her graduate later this year.

In 2018, Rick’s life changed dramatically when he became ill. What began as pneumonia developed into a much more serious and ongoing condition. Not being able to work was incredibly difficult for Rick. He struggled with having to sit back and watch others work while he looked on from his window.

Rick’s life was far too short. He made the most of the time he was given, but he had so much more he wanted to do.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Shaelyn, his partner, Lorraine; her children Ashley, Robert, and Sam; and grandson Kayden. He is also lovingly remembered by his mother Kathleen, brother Tracy (Sheila) and many extended family members and friends.

Rick was predeceased by his father, Don Kowal, just seven months ago, along with many other loved relatives.