It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Richard Longo Yekka, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend to so many across his communities. Richard passed away suddenly on October 14th while in Obongi, Uganda, a place close to his heart where he had recently begun enjoying his well-deserved retirement.

Richard was a beautiful soul who overcame immense challenges to build a life of love, purpose, and success. Born and raised in the village of Ngungu in Obongi, Uganda, he often spoke of his childhood surrounded by nature — even of moments when lions wandered near his home. During the civil war, he was forced to leave Uganda abruptly, taking only one thing with him: his school transcripts. That single act of foresight changed the course of his life.

Despite living in a refugee camp, he was determined to pursue an education. Richard did all he could, including camping outside of people’s homes and working for connected individuals, until he was eventually able to use those same transcripts to help him apply to university, where he eventually received an acceptance letter to study Sciences at the University of Cairo. It was in Cairo, at an African track and field championship celebration, that he met Evelyn for the first time, the woman who would eventually become his wife and lifelong partner.

After graduating, Richard applied for residency in both Canada and Australia — and fate brought him to Canada first, where he began a new life from scratch. Despite not being able to use his degree immediately, Richard’s perseverance never wavered. He worked at any job he could get, unashamed to take even the most menial jobs, before joining Procter & Gamble in 1990 as a Lab Technician. Through hard work, integrity, and loyalty, he rose through the company for over 35 years, eventually becoming a Regulatory Manager. He was known for mentoring countless colleagues, being generous in knowledge sharing, and left a lasting impact in the organization. He recently retired this past June, just after his 66th birthday.

Richard and Evelyn reconnected in Canada at an Ugandan community event, and married in 1996. Together they built a beautiful life, raising two daughters, Sura and Lenny, who were his greatest joy and pride. Richard was a steadfast and supportive father who encouraged his daughters in both school and sports — especially soccer, his favourite sport to watch. As well as being a huge Arsenal fan, he proudly traveled to watch Sura play with the Women’s National team and spent countless weekend mornings on the couch cheering for Premier League matches, often joined in the later years by Toby, Lenny’s dog.

Beyond work and family, Richard was a man of deep faith, humility, and curiosity. He attended church every Sunday at the Trinity Anglican Church Streetsville, loved reading thrillers and mysteries, and kept up with world events through CBC and radio news. He even enjoyed relaxing with shows that his daughters convinced him to watch like Avatar: The Last Airbender — finding wisdom and humour in simple joys.

He was the calm, steady presence in every room — someone people sought out for his wisdom, warmth, and a gentle laugh. Whether in Mississauga, Uganda, or anywhere in between, his humility and grace left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Richard spent his final weeks surrounded by family in Uganda — sitting under the shade of his favourite mango tree — eating, talking, and laughing with those he loved. It was a peaceful and happy time, a time that gave him moments to reflect on the richness of the life he built and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends.

Now, his family faces not only profound grief but also the unexpected financial burden of funeral arrangements and international logistics. Funds raised through this GoFundMe will help:

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. If you are unable to contribute financially, please share this page and keep Evelyn, Sura, and Lenny in your thoughts and prayers.

Richard’s life is a story of perseverance, faith, love, and legacy. His laughter, kindness, and wisdom will live on in everyone who had the blessing to know him.

With love and gratitude,

Family and Friends of Richard Yekka