François Simon Richard Hamelin

In Ottawa on January 27, 2026, Richard François Hamelin passed away at the age of 35, after a life marked by quiet courage, sensitivity, and a deep love for those close to him.

Beloved eldest son of Louise and Benoit Hamelin, and cherished brother to Jean-Philippe (Ewa), Michel, and Cindy (Taylor), Richard will be deeply missed by his godparents, Daniel Hamelin (Martine Perreault), and by the Hamelin family: Izabelle (Daniel Haché) and Caroline; as well as the Nadorozny family: Peter (Linda), Martha (Ray), Suzie (Larry), Rob (Julia), Patricia (Diego), along with many cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, March 6, 2026, in the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1L 8A6 at 12:00 pm. A Celebration of Richard's Life will be held at 1:00 pm followed by a reception.

Expressions of sympathy may be conveyed through donations in his memory to the Shepherds of Good Hope in Ottawa. 

Richard’s Life and Memories

During his early years, Richard lived in Victoria, British Columbia, before later returning to Ottawa, where he remained for the rest of his life. While in Victoria, Richard and his brother Jean-Philippe spent many happy hours playing on the beaches and exploring Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, enjoying the outdoors and the freedom of childhood adventures.

Back in Ottawa, Richard attended Chapel Hill Catholic School and later St. Matthew High School. Growing up alongside his brothers, he was very active and enjoyed a variety of sports, including soccer, football, and snowboarding. As a child, his birthday celebrations were often lively pool parties and sleepovers, where friends were having such a good time that some were in no hurry to be picked up by their parents — much to the amusement of the family, and as Louise would jokingly remind them, this was not the “American Plan.”

Richard spent many joyful moments with his aunts, uncles, and cousins on the Hamelin side of the family, where he took part in lively family get-togethers, celebrations, and fun gatherings that created lasting memories. These frequent visits strengthened his close bond with his extended family and contributed to his fluency in French.

Richard had a strong love for the outdoors and for sharing experiences with friends. He went on a canoe camping trip on the Ottawa River with his friend Jordi, an adventure made memorable by the unexpected presence of voracious mosquitoes. He also travelled to Newfoundland with his friend Greg and Greg’s family, where he was struck by the warmth of the people. He later shared, with humour, that he could not understand how everyone in the town seemed to know his name before even being introduced, and he truly appreciated the friendliness of the community and the time he spent there.

Richard and his friends shared many moments of laughter and lighthearted mischief, often playing pranks on one another. One memorable prank that stood out was when his best friend Sebastian posted their cat and a lawnmower for sale on Kijiji, which resulted in a surprising number of phone calls from people inquiring about the cat — much to the chagrin of his father, Benoit.

Richard had an offbeat sense of humour and a quick wit that those close to him will always remember. He enjoyed video games and had a particular appreciation for animated series such as BoJack Horseman and F is for Family, an interest he shared with his mother, creating moments of connection and shared laughter. Richard also shared his mother’s interest in reading books.

Above all, Richard was kind, generous, and intelligent, and he was always ready to help his family and friends whenever he was needed. He had a warm, beautiful smile and a distinctive twinkle in his eye that left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Richard was proud to be part of his brother Jean-Philippe and Ewa’s wedding last August in Mont-Tremblant, a beautiful day filled with family, celebration, and shared happiness. He was elegantly dressed, smiling, and fully present, clearly enjoying the occasion and the time spent with those closest to him. It was a meaningful family moment where his warmth, quiet humour, and genuine affection for his loved ones could be felt, and one that will remain a cherished memory for all who were there.

Like many, Richard faced challenges related to mental health and addiction. Through his journey, he reminded those around him of the importance of cherishing each moment and spending time with family and friends, as life is precious and time with loved ones is invaluable.

We will miss our dear Richard deeply.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4

Goodbye, dear Richard. You were loved by us and by many others. You are now in God’s care. May you rest in peace and watch over those who love you.