Colombe Marie Cecile Richard (Cleroux) was joyfully welcomed to her heavenly home on January 3, 2025, at the age of 88. She passed away peacefully in Grand Rapids, MI, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Ottawa, Canada, on November 22, 1936 to Napolean and Aurore Cleroux, Colombe lived a life full of love, strength, and dedication to her family and faith. She was predeceased by her parents, her brothers Normand, Sylvio, and Roger, and her sister Jeannine.

She was the beloved wife of Donald Richard for 64 years, a bond that was formed when they met on the ski slopes of Quebec and was solidified just seven months later when they were married. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. They said that on their wedding day, they became one, and their connection remained unbreakable throughout their beautiful marriage.

Colombe led a vibrant life and was passionate about sports and fitness. She represented Canada as a member of their National Volleyball team and played women's basketball for the Canadian Air Force as well as being named Miss Physical Fitness of the Ottawa YMCA . As a lifelong hockey fan, she spent countless hours cheering on her beloved Red Wings. Colombe was proud to become a U.S. citizen, and as a lover of the outdoors, she spent many years in Northern Michigan, fishing and canoeing at the family cottage. Her Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she relied on it during times of joy and hardship.Professionally, Colombe worked as a translator for the Canadian Air Force and later as a flight attendant for Air Canada. Yet, her greatest job came from being a wife and mother. She was happiest with a baby in her arms and took immense pride in caring for and nurturing her family.

She is forever cherished by her daughters, Michele Daykin and Donna (Steve) Bramble, and her grandchildren Jordan, Reed, Shane, Jillian, and Dane. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Zara, Judah, Lucy, Celina, Bear, and Camille, with another on the way. Colombe's kindness, selflessness, warmth, and generosity will be forever missed. Her legacy of love, faithfulness, and devotion to her family will live on in all who knew her. Hers truly was a life well lived! A private funeral Mass will be held, with interment in Alpena, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in her honor.

May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of Jesus.