In Memory of

Richard

Douglas

Frederic

"Rik"

Byers

Obituary for Richard Douglas Frederic "Rik" Byers

Richard Douglas Frederic Byers
March 3, 1959 - April 23, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that the Byers family announces the passing of Richard (Rik) Douglas Frederic Byers (63). Richard passed away peacefully while surrounded by family in the Lunenburg Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital on April 23, 2022 after suffering a stroke.

The son of Angus and Frances (Bezanson) Byers, Richard was born on March 3, 1959, in Lunenburg. Richard lived his entire life in Lunenburg and spent 34 years building his contracting business, Byers Custom Carpentry.

Although Richard was very humble and rarely talked about his successes, he was very proud of the many homes and renovations he completed in and around Lunenburg over the years. He enjoyed making dream homes come true and he never turned down a challenge. Richard has received accolades for the preservation of important Nova Scotian heritage properties and he has been acknowledged for his remarkable designs. Along with houses, Richard built many friendships with his clients – some that lasted a lifetime. He always led his team with patience, understanding, and gratitude and found great satisfaction in mentoring aspiring carpenters.

The only thing Richard took more pride in than his work was his family; spending time with his wife and five girls put the biggest smile on his face. He adored his wife, Bern, and would do anything to make her feel special. His weekends were filled with snuggles from his first grandchild, drives for iced coffees with his best friend Dave, adventures with Bern, and laughs shared around the kitchen table with family.

Richard had a generous spirit. He could often be found lending a hand to neighbours, plowing driveways for family and friends, or sharing his homemade smoked salmon. He was always available to drive anyone anywhere they needed and this kindness took him many places.

Survived by wife Bernadette (Chisholm), daughters Laura (Ben) of Halifax, Michelle (Darryl) of Kentville, Nicole (Cat) of Bridgewater, Olivia (Scott) of Lunenburg, and Philicity (Jenna) of Ottawa; grandson, Jake; as well as his loving mother-in-law, many brothers- and sisters-in-law, and lots of nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Angus and Frances (Bezanson) Byers and brother Steven.

A gathering to celebrate Richard’s life will be held on Friday, April 29, 2022 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, 11213 Hwy #3, Lunenburg.

In Richard’s honour to continue his legacy of supporting future carpenters – those desiring may contribute to the “Richard Byers Memorial Bursary for Carpentry” through by visiting the NSCC memorial donation page (https://support.nscc.ca/memorial-donation)