Richard Lawrence Sallie

Richard Lawrence Sallie, son of Frances Peterson (née Sallie), passed away peacefully at Wynyard Hospital with his sisters by his side.

Born on March 9, 1951, Rick grew up with his mom and grandma in Elfros. He attended Elfros School up to Grade 8, completing Grades 9–12 in Wynyard. Rick was active in school bands and was also a proud member of the Elfros 4-H Beef Club

After graduating in 1969, Rick went to work in Margo, where he lived with relatives and worked in their local store. He later worked for Don Schrader doing carpentry work and completed his first year of carpentry training in Saskatoon. Before starting his second year, Rick took a job in Thompson, Manitoba, at the nickel smelting plant. It was there that he tragically lost four fingers on his right hand in a workplace accident.

Once his hand healed and he completed rehabilitation and physiotherapy, Rick began working in road construction in 1977, starting with the maintenance crew. He later earned his license to operate heavy equipment and continued working in that field until his early retirement in 2004. Following that, he worked for a few farmers, helping them farm until his health prevented him from continuing.

Rick had many hobbies, including collecting plates, reading, curling, fishing, gardening, woodworking, music, and dancing. Partying was another pastime he enjoyed — though it sometimes got him into a bit of trouble! He loved estate auctions, garage sales, watching local sports teams, and attending band and Christmas concerts for his nieces and nephews. Rick was an avid curling fan and proudly watched games on his prized TV that he had won. He attended several Briars and Tournament of Hearts events when they were held in Saskatchewan. Rick also enjoyed Market in the Park and local events. Over the years he attended many family meals and finished it off with a “pinch” of dessert (i.e. snuff).

Rick belonged to several organizations and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was an actual official shareholder of the Riders, as he won a contest many years ago where the winner was issued an official Saskatchewan Roughrider share.

He served for many years in the Tuffnell Curling Club, collecting fees and selling tickets for poker derbies and sports days, and was always willing to help out at community events when needed.

One of the best things about Rick was his incredible memory. He could tell you anyone’s name — their kids, their grandkids, birthdays, and countless other details — and often reminded people of moments from their past, especially if they’d “goofed up.”

Rick was a true social butterfly and had daily coffee routine. He made lasting friendships wherever he went. He was generous with his time and talents, often donating handmade prizes for bonspiels and contributed one full disability cheque annually to Telemiracle.

Rick was predeceased by his mother Frances, stepfather Cleve Peterson, brother-in-law Glenn Olesen, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and good friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his sisters Shirley (Cliff Johnson) and Wanda Olesen (Gerald Lalach); nieces Megan Holizki (Roch Coté) and Lindsay Holizki; nephews Chevy (“Ford”) Johnson and Michael Johnson; as well as many cousins and dear friends.

Thank You

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to his wonderful neighbours for looking out for him and helping over the past few years, along with the Foam Lake Home Care team, Dr. Litwin, and the nurses and staff at Wynyard Hospital for their compassionate care.

The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone for the love, kindness, and support shown during our time of loss. Whether you attended Rick’s service, brought food, made a donation, sent a card or a phone call, or simply shared a cup of coffee and a conversation with him over the years - please know how much it means to us.

Your compassion and friendship have brought us great comfort and are a true reflection of the warmth and kindness Richard shared with so many.

As Rick would say, “See you when I see you.”

Memorial donations in memory of Rick can be made to a cause close to your heart in the towns of Foam Lake or Tuffnell. Rick was deeply involved in both communities and was known as a true social butterfly.