RICHARD ZURBA
RICHARD ZURBA Richard Zurba of Winnipeg MB passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 88 years. He leaves to mourn his passing: Vonne, his wife of 63 years, son Marc, brother Maurice (Aline), granddaughter Melanie, nieces Joan Stephanik and Linda Sawka, nephew John Misko (Susan). Quick with a lyric to suit any conversation or occasion, Richard was a charismatic man and the college of musical knowledge in the field of jazz, classical and the Great American Songbook . Schooled in the music industry with representing Columbia Records as managing director Richard then established the Record Room on Portage Avenue which, in the 1960s, was a place for those who knew where to buy and discuss Bennett, Basie and Mingus or the classics such Ravel and Stravinsky. Beyond his love for music, Richard had a keen interest in climate and geography, and a spiritual belonging to the universe that he witnessed simply by looking up at the night sky. He lived artfully and dreamt up songs even in his final days. These were his passions, which were central to his person, how he related to his world, and how he will be remembered. A true Winnipeger, Richard spent years in Toronto and Vancouver but always returned home. He requested no service, and interment will take place at a later date, but do feel free to raise a glass. We shall meet again someday, don't know where, don't know when
As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on March 17, 2012