Richard BRADSHAW

Richard Bradshaw

July 26, 1943-March 17, 2020

Richard David Gerald Bradshaw age 76, left us all too soon after a bold fight against brain cancer. 

Born to Evelyn (Jock) and Gerald Bradshaw, Richard and was born in Aldershot, England, where he cultivated a passion for literature, music, the countryside, motorcycles and fast cars. 

In 1967, Richard met his first wife, Judy. Shortly after, they moved to Sydney, Australia, where they had their daughter, Zoe. In 1971, after a couple of years residing in Judy's homeland of New Zealand their son Leon was born. In 1973, they moved across the pond to Victoria, BC Canada.

In 1988, Richard met pianist  and teacher Hiromi Nogi, who shared his passion for music. They were married in 2001 and moved to Gabriola Island 13 years ago. A master piano technician and talented craftsman, Richard owned a successful piano tuning & restoration company in Victoria and the Gulf Islands for close to 30 years. A self taught and accomplished musician, Richard played piano and loved to play the harmonica 'bending a note' like no other. His musical taste ranged from jazz to classical and always, the blues. He had an ear for sound and low tolerance for botched tunes.  His true character and charm, intelligence and quick wittedness was admired by his family (specifically his grandchildren) friends and clients. A great storyteller, polite and wise, Richard formed and maintained everlasting friendships and had a way of making people feel special. His strength, humor and will throughout his battle with cancer were an inspiration to his family through a very difficult time.

Survived by his wife Hiromi, brother Philip, children Zoe (Dwayne) and Leon (Jennifer) grandchildren Emma and Kai, and special extended family members - Bre and Ajana (Jennifer).  A loving husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend, Richard will be forever missed by all who knew him. Often reminiscent, he would quote Sir Bob Dylan, “We are all on borrowed time here....enjoy it while you can.”

Heartfelt thanks to Hiromi who cared for her best friend and partner every day and to so many loving friends who helped out so much. 

Due to the current pandemic concern and its challenges, the date for A Celebration of Life is tentatively set for Richard's birthday - July 26th, 2020, on Gabriola Island.

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing
and rightdoing there is a field.
I’ll meet you there.
-Rumi

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