Richard Vernon Lauridsen

Richard (Dick), Vernon, Lauridsen, 85, of Salmon Arm, B.C., passed away peacefully on March 12, 2021 at Shuswap Lake General Hospital. He was born June 4, 1935, at Chip Lake/Leaman, Alberta. In his early years, Dick worked with his dad at the family garage they owned in Wildwood, Alberta. It was during this time that he purchased his first Model T Coupe for $35, and then followed by his first Fordson tractor, both of which would become the start of a lifetime fascination for him. In 1958, Dick married the love of his life, Rita Gambin, at Wildwood, Alberta. Together they raised three children, Jerry, Lori, and Tracy. Dick and Rita settled on a farm outside of Wildwood, and operated their own construction company, Dick Lauridsen Cat Work Ltd., from the 1960s to 1980s. Dick was considered one of the best heavy equipment operators in that area during that time period. Notably, he worked tirelessly alongside others to put out the infamous, Lobstick Oil Rig Fire in the late 1970s. Not only did he work in the oilfield industry, but helped to build many of the roadways that are currently in use in Alberta today. In 1985, Dick and Rita moved to Salmon Arm, B.C. This is where he would find the time to enjoy his lifelong passion of restoring tractors, especially Ford 8Ns. In fact, he built 39 of them over a period of several years. To his friends, he was known as the 8N man, for he was always able to provide others with information on how to do their own restorations. Dick was an avid reader, and loved war history. He enjoyed watching aviation documentaries, and this is probably why he pursued obtaining his pilots license during his 20s. He was an active member of the local Shuswap Pioneer Tractor Club, and rarely ever missed a chance to get together with his buddies for their once-a-week coffee time visit. Dick has left a legacy upon those who knew him best, and especially his children, who are so proud to have had him as their dad. In fact, his entire family will be forever grateful to him for all of his wisdom, guidance, and knowledge that they have experienced throughout the years of having him in their lives. Dick is survived by his loving wife, Rita, son, Jerry Lauridsen, daughters, Lori (Doug) Rehn, and Tracy Lauridsen. Grandchildren, Rico Rehn, Krystle (Dwight) Lakusta, and Great-grandchildren, Axel & Danika Lakusta. He was preceded in death by his parents, Axel and Myrtle Lauridsen, and his sister, Shirley Klingbeil. A graveside (family only) service was held at the Shuswap Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, March 20th, 2021 at 11:00 am.