Richard Kennedy Shears

Richard Kennedy Shears

“Shearsy” • “Ric”

Richard Kennedy Shears passed away peacefully at Spencer House in Orillia on December 1, 2025. Born in Sharbot Lake in August 1948, Ric lived a life rich with adventure, curiosity, and unmistakable charm.

He was a cherished son of the late Betty and Ed Shears, and a beloved brother to Jan Vilneff (Ron), Rob Shears (Kathy), and Susan Dennison (Jim), and a special uncle to many nieces and nephews who adored his stories, humour, and generosity of spirit.

Ric was a world adventurer, a painter, an English teacher, a corn farmer, a hunter, and an unapologetically “embellished” fisherman. A friend to many, he collected experiences-and people-wherever he went. Those who knew him will smile at the thought that he may still be hiding out in Thailand, living life on his own terms.

Ric lives on in each of us whose lives he touched.

“I woke up this morning and I got myself a beer.” -The Doors