Obituary of Richard Ellis Preston

Professor Richard Ellis Preston, Sr.

With profound sadness we announce the passing of Professor Emeritus Richard Ellis Preston Sr., on Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, at the age of 90 years. He was surrounded by close family during his final days and his passing was peaceful. Richard was predeceased by his parents Ellis Gray and Eleanor Elizabeth Preston, and his brother Robert Preston of Twisp, Washington. Much loved husband for 62 years to Janet Marilyn Preston (nee Caldwell). Beloved father and grandfather to son Richard Ellis Preston Jr. (Shelley) and grandchildren Sabrina and Amelia of Santa Clarita, California. Daughter Marsha Anne Purvis (Miles), and grandchildren Kaitlyn (Peter), Austin and Andria of Stratford, Ontario, daughter Joanna Maile DeGuzman, and grandchildren Jesse and Maile of Orleans, Ontario. Richard was born in Chelan Falls, Washington and, in his words, “was a boy who fell in love with football.” He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Central Washington State University, his Master’s Degree from the University of Washington and his PHD. from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. He loved being a Geography professor at the University of Waterloo and published over 100 articles and books in his academic field. Cremation and a private celebration of life will be held by family. As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society or Parkinson Society through www.erbgood.com.