Obituary of Joseph Richard High

HIGH, RICK: Passed with peace and grace on Saturday, July 23, 2016 with his "baby girls" by his side, Joseph Richard High in his 69th year has been reunited with his true love Judy Gordon (2008) in heaven. Survived by daughters Nicole (Matt) of Campden and Carrie (Chuck) of Binbrook, stepson Wayne (Aisling) of Grimsby, and son-in-law Paul Allingham of Grimsby. Rick was the most caring and compassionate "Poppa" to grandchildren Michael Allingham, Dylan Tchorz, Brooklyn Tchorz, Noah High-Mroz, Christian Palermo, and Evelyn Rose Gordon. Born in St. Catharines, Rick was the fourth of seven children born to Bruce and Marcelle High. He was an avid car lover and spent most of his adult life racing cars at Cayuga Dragway. He worked at Smithville Auto Parts for many years before moving on to work at Carquest in various cities. We will all miss his smile, his hugs, his outrageous stories of powerful cars, his kind voice on the other end of the phone, his sensitive life advice, and his heart. We draw strength knowing that he received exceptional care from the doctors, nurses and staff from 7 South at Hamilton General Hospital. Rick is at peace with Judy and his heart will live on through his family and friends. Visitation on Thursday, July 28 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Merritt Funeral Home, 287 Station Street, Smithville. The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 29 at 11 a.m. at Smithville United Church, 116 West Street (Regional Rd 20), Smithville. Inurnment Vineland Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations to Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated and can be made through the funeral home.