Richard Leland Clement

Richard Leland Clement, age 68, passed away on March 12, 2023 at the Skyline Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Canon City, CO, where he had lived for the last 7 years. He was born on April 1, 1956 in Denver, CO to Douglas and Charlene Clement.  

Richard was an inspiration to many.  Born with cerebral palsy and nonverbal, he did not allow his disabilities to discourage him.  There was a tenderness to Richard that only those who suffer much can truly understand.  His ability to sense when others were struggling or sad was uncanny.  His love language was physical touch and he was quick to hug those who came around him. 

With his tenderness also came a teasing sense of humor.  He loved to laugh and his loud hardy laugh would cause those around him to laugh also.  He especially enjoyed teasing his Aunt Lorraine and Sister-in-Law DeeDee by messing up their hair or saying that they talked too much.  The brotherly love that he and Bob, his younger brother, shared was extraordinary and filled with compassion and kindness. 

His hobbies were limited but he was passionate about them; bowling, horses, cowboys, and eating out.  Richard had been part of the Starpoint family for over 25 years.  The kindness and support that Starpoint provided over the years gave purpose and adventure for Richard.  Our family will be forever grateful for the love they showed him. 

Richard was always surrounded by family.  He lived with his parents until their deaths at which time he lived with his brother and sister-in-law. When his physical needs required more assistance, he moved into Skyline Ridge.  The staff became his extended family and welcomed him immediately.  They learned how to communicate with him and loved him and the family well, even through the difficult times.  Thank you for your kindness. 

Richard is survived by his brother, Robert (DeeDee) Clement; his aunt, Lorraine Kennec; cousins, Thad (Rhoda) Brunelli, Shon Brunelli; and his nephew, Jacob (Elizabeth) Womack.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Mary Lesser; and his uncles, Bobby Kennec, Tom Smith and Sonny Brunelli. A memorial service for Richard will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at Wilson Memorial Chapel: 1449 S. 9th St. in Canon City.

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