Steven Firth

Steven Rickards Firth

September 26, 1960 – March 28, 2026

On Saturday, March 28, the world became a little smaller. After a courageous eight-year battle with cancer, Steven Rickards Firth passed away peacefully, with family by his side. 

Steve showed us all how to fight; he was the very definition of strength. We truly believe we gained years of irreplaceable memories simply because of how hard he fought to stay with us.

Steve leaves behind his wife and best friend, Melissa (Moffatt); his daughter, Amanda (Andrew Lemoine); and his son, Kyle (Lindsey Kennedy). He was the proud and doting grandfather to Ava, Ashtyn, Brooklyn, and Georgia. He will be deeply missed by a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues who loved and admired him. Steve was predeceased by his parents, Rodney Rickards and Barbara Warren.

Born in Ottawa on September 26, 1960, Steve was truly one of a kind—a "unicorn," as some would say. He was an incredible father, husband, and a fierce protector of those he held dear. A master Mercedes-Benz technician for over 35 years, Steve was as passionate about his craft as he was skilled at it. He served as a mentor to many, sharing his wisdom freely in both his professional and personal life.

An avid cyclist with a lifelong passion for being outdoors, Steve inspired countless others to discover the joy of the open road. He also had a legendary "need for speed." Anyone who ever had the pleasure of racing Steve on anything motorized would likely tell you they all had one thing in common: they lost. He was a man who could fix anything; Melissa often referred to him as her "forever handyman." If a tool was needed, Steve had it; if a house needed repair, he was there without hesitation, ensuring those he loved were always taken care of. Many of his happiest moments were spent on Mississippi Lake. Whether it was a quiet early morning coffee with Melissa or taking his granddaughters on the boat, Steve adored being on the water with the sun shining on his face.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the compassionate staff at the Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice and Hein House in Kanata, as well as the dedicated nurses, Dr. Morgan and the oncology team at the Ottawa General Cancer Centre, for their exceptional care.

A visitation will be held on April 11, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Barker Funeral Home, 19 McArthur Avenue, Carleton Place, Ontario.

A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date, when the weather clears and the sun can once again shine on our faces.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve’s memory may be made to the Ruddy-Shenkman Hospice or Hospice Care Ottawa (Hein House).

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