Richard SCALE

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SCALE: With immeasurable sadness we mourn the tragic and sudden death of Richard Davies Scale, on 2nd October 2010, aged 60 years, near Boissevain, Manitoba. He leaves behind his heartbroken family; Nichola, his adoring wife, loving sons, James, Joseph and Francis, daughters-in-law Jana and Emily, sister and brother- in-law Kate and Glynne, and grand-daughter Evelyn. Richard will be remembered by all as a giant in stature and character; a strong man whose presence was truly felt by those around him. With his big grin and the twinkle in his eye he could instantly bring warmth and a jovial atmosphere to any gathering; a larger-than-life character who could not go unnoticed. He fiercely loved and protected his family, greeting every day with an iron handshake and a happy determination to provide for them with seemingly unlimited energy, strength and infectious enthusiasm. He lived by the firm belief that through a thoughtful approach and hard work anything was possible, and he was not afraid to think and dream 'big'. He was a generous and fun host, and a great friend to many; never too busy to lend his considerable help and advice to others, always ready for coffee and a chat, and with an enviable memory for detail that made every encounter truly personal. Richard was born in Haverfordwest, Wales, on January 27th 1950, to George and Margaret Scale of Syke Farm, Walwyn's Castle. He and his sister, Kate, grew up surrounded by the warmth and fun of Pembrokeshire's extensive farming community, and he became involved with many rural organizations and activities during his childhood and youth. These included Pembrokeshire Pony Club, Tiers Cross Young Farmers, North Pembs. Hunt, and the local jalopy racing club. Richard was educated first in the local village, moving on to Selwyn House Prep. School in Tenby and then to Wrekin College in Shropshire where he boarded for his senior years. He worked tirelessly with his father on the busy family farm, moving to his own farm near Pembroke aged 21. Originally his grandmother's charming smallholding, Ford Farm became a thriving, well-run business and a notable landmark under Richard's ownership and management, adding Poyerston dairy farm and a herd of award-winning pedigree Simmentals in later years. Amongst other achievements, his endeavours gained him selection to join the Worshipful Company of Farmer's course at Wye College in 1981. Still making time for off-farm pursuits, Richard was ardently involved with Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, becoming chief ring steward at the County Show for some years, as well asmaking many new 'town' friends during his years in Pembroke Round Table, of which he became President in 1991. The births of James in 1979 and Joe in 1982, brought the joy of fatherhood to Richard's life, and added new supporting roles in activities such as mini-rugby, motocross, shooting and family trips, with Richard becoming the driver and supervisor of many fun rugby tours and birthday extravaganzas! In 1991, Richard and Nichola met in a real "love at first sight" moment, forging a bond of true life partnership, deep love and respect which prevailed in their future lives together with James, Joe and Francis. Their subsequent marriage and the decision to leave the confines of Welsh Farming in 1996, seeking opportunities under the massive Manitoba skies, heralded his happiest years of adventure, freedom and possibilities, and consolidated the family as they settled on the Minnedosa farm and into Canadian culture. In 2002, Prairie Silage Services was established, for which Richard has been most widely known in recent years, spending hardworking summers with 'the team', travelling throughout southern Manitoba and Eastern Saskatchewan. As the children moved on with their own lives, Richard and Nichola began to travel more, visiting the boys on the West Coast, as well as indulging theirnew-found enjoyment of winter vacations in hot, sunny countries. Richard would surely say that one of his dreams come true was visiting Joe and Emilyin Uganda last January incorporating a tour of six African Countries! Being 'Grandpa' to Evelyn also brought a new joy to Richard's life and an appreciation to the family for the continuation of life that makes this terrible loss bearable. Richard's funeral service, attended by hundreds of both local and overseas mourners, was held on October 9th at St Marks Anglican Church, Minnedosa, with his interment following in the beautiful hilltop surroundings of Minnedosa Cemetery, where his resting place aptly overlooks fields, the town and the lake. A memorial service will also be held at Carew Cheriton Church, near Pembroke, Wales, on December 22nd at 6:00 p.m. Richard leaves a legacy of wonderful memories, love and respect for his family, strong character and ideals in his three sons, and warmth and friendship for his friends and colleagues. This is truly reflected in the huge kindness that has been shown to the family at this difficult time, and they would like to give their heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped by continuing the silage business, helping in the fields, dropping meals to the house, or simply offering their support and good wishes. Donations in Richard's memory may be made to St Mark's Anglican Church Memorial Fund, Box 784, Minnedosa, Manitoba, R0J 1E0, or in Britain to St. James' Church, Walwyn's Castle, c/o Mr H. Scurlock, Gordy Hall, Littlehaven, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA62 3TT. Expressions of sympathy may be made atwww.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.

As published in Brandon Sun on Nov 06, 2010