July 31, 1945 – September 6, 2022

With great sadness we announce that Richard Gulland, age 77, passed away unexpectedly of pneumonia and stroke on September 6 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. He slipped away peacefully in the company of Sandra Gulland, his wife of 45 years, and his much beloved children, Carrie Sudds and Chet Gulland. The family is grateful for the amazing and even emotionally-tender care Richard received at both the Renfrew and the Ottawa Civic hospitals.

Richard was born in Penetanguishene, Ontario. In the late 70’s, after resigning as President of Canadian Scale – a heavy equipment company – Richard and family came to stay “temporarily” in the log cabin they had recently built in Brudenell. Having fallen in love with the community, and determined to stay, Richard founded Black Water Designs in Foymount. The company employed over 200 people locally and became respected throughout North America for its quality outerwear.

Richard was a rare individual: witty, often a joker – he loved to amuse – but at the same time he was logical and super serious. Whatever he set his mind to do, succeeded. He knew how to make things work, how to get from point A to B, how to make things happen. While practical in all things, the bedrock of his family,personal and business lives was his committment to always “do the right thing.”

A former Black Water employee described Richard as “a force of nature.” His family and wide circle of friends and acquaintances would agree, for his spirit, his generous heart, his wit and wisdom, touched so very many – often unknowingly, for he was, by nature, a very private person, rarely wanting credit or to draw attention to himself.

A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he will be greatly missed by his wife, Sandra, their children and their families – Carrie and Bruce Sudds and their three girls, Chet and Kendra and their baby – as well as by his sisters and brothers, extended family and friends both near and far. He left us far too soon.

Close family and friends met shortly after Richard’s death for a private memorial in honour of his life. As an expression of sympathy, donations by cheque can be made to the Killaloe Food Bank at 15 Lake St, Box 59, Killaloe, ON K0J 2A0, or to any food bank in your community. Such charities were close to Richard’s heart.