Obituary of Richard Boyd Dunham

Age 77, of Windsor, passed away unexpectedly, with family by his side, on Monday, February 2, 2026, while in the care of the Halifax Infirmary Site, QEII, Halifax. Born in Halifax on December 11, 1948, he was a son of the late Donald and Iris (Bonnell) Dunham and step-mother Audrey (Isenor).

Rick lived a life defined by independence, determination and a quiet, steady kindness that touched more people than he ever realized. A community-minded businessman with a kind heart and a stubborn streak, Rick lived life his own way and never took no for an answer. Early in his career, he worked for MBB Mechanical under the mentorship of Andy Madden, an experience that shaped his values, work ethic and approach to business. A true risk-taker, Rick went on to start his first business, Maritime Pressure Works, at the age of 50 and through hard work and vision, grew it into a million-dollar company.

Before moving to Windsor, Rick lived in Eastern Passage, where he raised his family and became deeply rooted in the community. He was proud to be part of the group that helped start the community radio station, Seaside FM, another reflection of his belief in connection, local voices and bringing people together.

After selling Maritime Pressure Works, Rick and Debbie moved to Windsor, where he began his second career and continued doing what he loved most, creating spaces where people could gather and enjoy life. In Windsor, Rick purchased The Spitfire Arms Pub, and Gerrish and Grey Coffee Shop, opened the Clockmakers Inn, and Debbies restaurant A Hole in the Wall, all operating under the umbrella of R&D Dunham Holdings. Each reflected Rick’s passion for hospitality, community and creating places where people felt at home.

At the center of Rick’s life was his beloved wife of 50 years, Debbie, whom he met in high school. Their love story was one of loyalty, partnership and unwavering devotion. Rick had a special way of making Debbie feel like she always had the final say, even though everyone knew Rick usually did. It was one of the many ways he showed his love. Together they travelled the world, built lifelong friendships and shared a life full of adventure and laughter.

Rick was a devoted father to his daughters, Rebecca and Sarah, who proudly followed in his entrepreneurial footsteps. He deeply admired their drive, creativity and independence. Nothing made him prouder than watching them build lives and businesses of their own.

He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren, Franko (Franklin), Charles, Emmy (Emerson), Peter (Juniper) and Squirt (Alister). Everything Rick did, he did for them. They were his greatest joy, his motivation and his legacy.

Rick also had a lifelong love of trains, and classic cars. He built a collection of cars he was incredibly proud of. He hated vegetables, loved chocolate milk and never pretended to be anyone other than exactly who he was.

Raised on Williams Street in a big family, Rick carried those early values of loyalty, resilience and looking out for others throughout his life. Those who knew Rick often say the same thing, he helped quietly. He didn’t seek recognition or praise. He simply noticed when someone was in need and found a way to help, often without anyone ever knowing.

Rick will be remembered for his strong will, generous spirit, sharp mind, sense of humour and unwavering sense of self. His legacy lives on through his family, the businesses he built, the communities he shaped and the countless lives he touched along the way.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Lynn (Barter); daughters, Rebecca Iris (Amin) Tran and Sarah Marie; grandsons, Franklin Richard and Charles Ellis Arthur, and Emerson Boyd Van and Alister Richard Van Tran; granddaughter, Juniper Marie Thi Tran; son-in-law, Sean Arthur; sisters, Susan (Bernie) Hughes, Deborah (Dave) Bennett and Valerie Christie; brothers, Teddy (Leighanne) and Steve (Dolores) Chapman; brother-in-law, Don Hawboldt; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and his loyal dog, Wilson - a constant companion who was always waiting to greet him with a wagging tail and who brought him daily joy.

Besides his parents, Rick was predeceased by sisters, Lynda (in infancy) and Patricia Hawboldt.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317), where visitation will be held 1-3 and 6-8 p.m., on Thursday, February 5. A funeral service in memory of Rick will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, February 6, in Windsor United Church, 613 King St., Windsor. A private family burial will follow in Vaughan Community Cemetery. Guests are welcome to join the family at the reception to be held 1:30-5 p.m., in The Spitfire Arms Alehouse, 29 Water St., Windsor. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rick’s memory may be made to Matthew 25 Windsor District Food Bank, 90 Sanford Dr. #2116, Windsor, NS B0N 2T0 or online at: www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/windsor-and-district-food-bank-society/ or to Avon River Days Society, 110 Panuke Road, Three Mile Plains, NS B0N 2T0 or by e-transfer to: sponsorships@avonriverdays.ca. Messages may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca, open the obituary and click on the condolence tab.