TJART, JACOB RICHARD DENNIS

   Was born on March 15, 1955 in St. Catharines, to parents Jacob and Anne (Braun) Tjart. Best friend and husband of Gwen (Coutts) for 42 years. Devoted proud father of son, Matthew, (Kristi) Tjart of Barrie and daughter, Erin, (Dave) Barmanche of Elmvale.  Best Poppa ever to Isabelle Tjart, Ava, Lyla and Greyson Barmanche. Dear brother to Linda (Jim) Ward, Kathy Tjart, Sandra Tjart, Rosemary (Peter) King, Bruce (Debra) Tjart.  Dear Brother-in-law to Norma (Jamie) Hart and Cheryl Coutts.  Cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Richard passed away, on March 25, 2023, after a valiant battle with Esophageal Cancer.

Richard’s family moved to Singhampton in 1967 and later to the Stayner area. Upon completion of high school he worked in various local lumber yards in the area and eventually progressed into sales.  By 1978, the Alberta winds called "Go west young man”. Richard became a rigger in the Oil Patch with Schlumberger.  He left the love of his life and best friend, Gwen, in Ontario so that she could complete her education.  Following Gwen and Richard’s marriage on May 31, 1980,  they  ventured as a team to Edmonton where Richard worked locally.  

Life was calling Richard and Gwen home in 1983,  as they started their family.  Richard commenced his career at Wolf Steel Ltd, with a handful of employees.  During his 34 year career he became project coordinator in R&D, where his engineering craft and design of wood and gas units are prominent in many homes throughout Canada.  

Richard was an avid vegetable gardener and enjoyed sourcing wood, puttering, and investigating how machines or electrical components worked. He was a voracious reader and could be found sitting at the Tiki Bar, by the backyard bonfire. He was an attentive listener, enjoying hearing about everyone’s adventures, inviting everyone to “Tell me a story”.  Richard’s infectious smile touched many. 

Richard had a strong passion for travelling by motorcycle throughout Canada, and US, driving through mountainous regions of Italy and winter getaways, making memories with Gwen and dear friends. 

Rooting for the Montreal Canadiens or the Toronto Blue Jays and best of all cheering for Matt and Erin at their hockey and ball games was a highlight for Richard. He delighted in spending many hours playing with his grandchildren and taking them on adventures on the trails and gardens and looking for rocks. 

Richard touched many people with his calm demeanour and always had time for a chat! Richard will be sorely missed and will continue to guide us from above. 

Donations may be made to: Hospice Simcoe Barrie or the Elmvale Food Bank

A celebration of life will be at

4 Meredith Court, Tiny

June 24, 2023 1-4 pm, Eulogy at 2pm.

Please bring a lawn chair.