It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a good man. After a valiant struggle with cancer, Rick Ponomar passed away peacefully at Adaptacare surrounded by family on June 28th at the age of 67. 

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Wendy; sons, Danny and Erik (Kelsey); daughter, Victoria (Colin) Haugan; grandchildren, Brooks and Sasha Haugan; mother, Stephanie (Gus); sister Tina (Ray) Bonetti; nephews, Spencer and Jackson Bonetti; three wonderful in-law’s whom he thought of as sisters (Barb Ashmead, Lois Franklin, and JoAnne Paquette), as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his father Mykola "Nick" Ponomar, and infant sister Terry.

Rick was born and raised in Magrath, where he formed many long-lasting friendships. Growing up, Rick loved and excelled in sports - specifically basketball and golf. After high school Rick attended the University of Alberta, where he received a bachelor’s degree in economics. Following graduation, Rick moved to Lethbridge where he started building a life and a family. 

As the family grew, so did Rick’s childhood desire to learn more about astronomy. He was fundamental in making the Lethbridge Astronomy Society what it is today, and he was honored by having the Popson Park Astronomical Laboratory named after him.

 Rick spent most of his working life at M.P. Crushing Ltd., where he had the opportunity to work with his dad and partners. Rick continued the family business with his friends and family until his passing.

Family and friends were at the top of the list throughout Rick's life. His love, devotion, and compassion truly shined within those close to him. His light is one that will not be forgotten. We are beyond grateful for the time we had with him, and he will always be remembered as the gentle, kind, caring, humorous, and brilliant man he was. 

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Dr. Bruce Martin, officiating. To watch the service via livestream, please go to https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/RichardRick-Ponomar and scroll to the bottom of Rick’s obituary page.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial donations to the Lethbridge Red Cross, 3131 1st Ave S T1J 4H2, the Jack Ady Cancer Center, 960 19 St S, Lethbridge AB T1J 1W5, or to the Lethbridge Astronomy Society, https://www.canadahelps.org/en/ or email lethbridgeastronomy@gmail.com