Richard Benton Green

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Benton Green on January 19, at his home in New Westminster, British Columbia.

Richard was nearly born in the cab his parents took to Mount St. Joseph Hospital in Vancouver, perhaps the beginning of a lifelong love of driving. Born prematurely, his early months were followed closely in the local newspapers.

That same spirit of optimism and resilience stayed with him throughout life. No matter the setback, he rarely complained and instead moved forward, always choosing to support others.

As the firstborn, Richard took family responsibilities very seriously, with one small exception: when very young, he once forgot his baby sister at the store in her pram and went home with only candy, a story that became a favourite source of family teasing. It is also fondly noted that his first gift to his daughter was a model train set which, as of this writing, she still was not allowed to use. Aside from these funny stories, he could always be relied upon to provide love and support to family and friends. Advice and a listening ear were always available. The coffee was always on, the crib board always ready, and many problems were solved through those conversations

Richard began his working life with the White Pass in the Yukon and Alaska, where his love of trains and transportation first took root. In the mid 1970’s, he joined Canada Safeway, beginning a career he truly loved. Over more than 30 years, he drove accident-free, accumulating over one million road miles and earning a reputation as an excellent driver. He was well known and highly respected within the trucking community, forming many lifelong friendships.

Richard was an award-winning driver and a regular participant at the Canadian Truck “Roadeo”, where he won multiple divisional titles and was crowned Grand Champion provincially and nationally.

Trains remained one of his greatest passions throughout life. Many happy hours were spent watching them and travelling by rail. In 2019, Richard and his daughter took the trip of a lifetime, travelling across Canada and the United States by train — a memory treasured by both.

His knowledge of trucking and transportation was encyclopedic. He loved sharing stories about the history of BC trucking. Recently, participation in a book about the Safeway distribution centre allowed him to reconnect with former colleagues, bringing tremendous joy during his final months.

Richard was first married to Katherine, with whom he shared his early adult life and welcomed his only daughter, Sarah Jane, who meant everything to him. He later shared his life with Vi for more than 25 years, and their time together brought him great happiness. After Vi’s passing, Richard eventually met Susan, and they remained dear friends for many years until his own passing. These relationships brought him love, laughter, and lasting connection throughout his life.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Jim and Bob, his sister Mary, and Vi. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Sarah Jane (Scott), stepdaughter Bobbi, granddaughter Kelsey (Jack), and a large circle of dear friends and family near and far.

The family has been deeply comforted by the many calls, stories, and messages sharing how much he meant to others. He will live on in the fond memories of many.

A celebration of life will be held later in the spring. The family asks that you take a moment to think positively, remember the importance of friendship and family, and simply enjoy the trip.