Richard Michael Czarnota

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Michael Czarnota, affectionately known as Rick, who left us on March 1, 2026 in Calgary Alberta. Born on May 17, 1975, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Rick lived a vibrant life filled with love, passion, and countless cherished memories.

Rick  spent his early years in Young, Saskatchewan, before his family moved to Turtleford when he was just five years old. He began his education at Turtleford School in 1980, where he would later grow to excel both academically and athletically. In 1990, the family relocated to Coronation, Alberta, where Rick's dedication to sports shone brightly. He excelled in hockey, baseball, volleyball, and track. He was particularly proud of winning the senior boys provincial 100-meter race in 1993. His talents in hockey led him to play Junior A with the St. Albert Saints from 1993 to 1995, leaving a legacy as both a skilled athlete and a beloved teammate.

After completing his secondary education at Coronation School in 1993, Rick pursued higher education at the University of Alberta, where he graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. This accomplishment marked the beginning of his career in engineering, which he continued passionately until his passing.

In 2012, Rick’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Melody. Their love blossomed with a wedding ceremony in Mexico in 2015. Together, they created a loving family, and in 2018 welcomed twin daughters, Emma and Sarah, who became Rick's greatest joy and pride. He cherished every moment spent with them and dedicated himself wholeheartedly to being an extraordinary father.

Rick had a wide array of interests that enriched his life. He had a deep love for hockey and was a loyal fan of the Edmonton Oilers. He enjoyed golfing and made many joyful memories on canoe trips with friends. Additionally, Rick held a special fondness for fishing in Northern Saskatchewan, a pastime that he treasured sharing with his dad, brother, and close friends.

He is survived by Melody Czarnota, and his two daughters, Emma and Sarah Czarnota. Rick is also remembered by his parents, Henry and Colleen Czarnota, his brother Patrick (Nadja) Czarnota of Ben Lomond, California, and their children Archie and Lucy, as well as his sister Suzy (Brent) Klein of Kelowna, British Columbia, and their children Carter, Ashley, and Logan. He leaves behind aunts Gerry (Hank) Fortin of Nipawin, Saskatchewan, Dorothy Czarnota of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, June Younge of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Jack (Melanie) Younge of Okotoks, Alberta, along with numerous cousins who will miss him dearly.

Rick was preceded in death by his fraternal grandparents, Stan and Agnes Czarnota, maternal grandparents, Jack and June Younge, and his uncle Joseph Czarnota.

Rick will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the indelible mark he left on the lives of his family and friends will forever remain in their hearts.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Rick's neurosurgeons Dr. Garnette Sutherland,  Dr. Sanju Lama, his neurologist Dr. Paula de Robles, his radiation oncologist Dr. Salman Faruqi and the TBCC. Also a special thank you to the staff at Foothills Medical Centre on units 58, 111 and 112 and the many allied health professionals that assisted in Rick's care. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made via e-transfer to Brthesen@shaw.ca to set up a trust fund for Sarah & Emma's education. 

A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.