The intellectual disabilities community has lost one of its greatest advocates.
Richard Neufeld, who retired this spring as general manager for Blue Sky Opportunities in Altona after a 20 year career, passed away last Friday at the age of 63.
In a statement to PembinaValleyOnline, Steve Giesbrecht, Chair for the Blue Sky Opportunities board of directors, said Neufeld's passion for his work could be seen in the way he worked at getting the new recycling shop built, connecting with students for the annual Ecole West Park School Clean-a-thon, as well as the annual fall suppers, which Giesbrecht says Neufeld saw as a way to connect with the greater community and let people know what was happening at Blue Sky.
"Creating safe, welcoming spaces for clients and employees along with connecting the community to the heart of Blue Sky will remain Richard’s legacy," added Giesbrecht.
Neufeld was also well-known among the local classic car community. He was one of five people who came together in the summer of 1999 to discuss forming a local car club, and in 2000 the Legends Car Club was formed, with Neufeld serving as secretary treasurer.
He eventually went on to become the club's 4th president and later, taking on the role of chairman for the annual drag races event for a period of time.
In a statement to PembinaValleyOnline, fellow club founder, Don Elias, remembered Neufeld as an excellent mechanic who was always helping other members work on their classic cars.
"He was one of the most organized people I have ever had the pleasure of working together, a good friend, and he will be sadly missed," added Elias.
A Celebration of Life service will be held today at 2 p.m. at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre in Altona.
Participants at the Legend's annual Charity Drag Races last week did a slow roll in honour of Neufeld following his passing.