Obituary of Richard Mark John Herriott

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Mark John Herriott November 29, 1963 to July 5, 2024

It is that, with great sadness, the family of Richard Mark John Herriott announce his passing on July 5, 2024 at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario, after a brief illness. He was 60 years old.

Richard is predeceased by his father, John David Herriott.

Leaving to mourn, his mother, Josephine Herriott; his two beloved sons, Oliver and Gregory and his former wife, Elizabeth Kenwood; siblings: Chuck (Nina Sutherby), Mike (Ofra Harnoy), Grace (Rod Hawes).

Richard Herriott, was born in Singapore in 1963, He spent his early childhood in London, England, and in 1967, the Herriott Family emigrated to Canada. He made his recital debut for CBC at age 12. At age 18, he made his Orchestral debut with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra under Sir Andrew Davis to great acclaim from both audience and critics.

He has given Concerts in 14 Countries around the World, and has played under many great Conductors including Wyn Davies, John Pryce- Jones, Uri Mayer, Georg Tintner, and Kevin Mallon.

Herriott was also widely celebrated for his highly developed and unique ability of Improvisation. Major Ballet Companies in North America and Europe have repeatedly asked for his services as Dance Accompanist, in response to his highly energetic and imaginative original Music for Class. He has composed several short Ballets, and has also written Concerti for Guitar, Oboe, 2 Oboes, 2 Celli, and Piano.

In 2017, Herriott performed with Orchestra Toronto, under, Kevin Mallon, his 1st Piano Concerto " The Newfie Bullet ". In 2019, he premiered his 2nd Piano Concerto " an Electric organ, a Ladder and a Persian rug " with Orchestra Toronto under Michael Newnham. It was in November of 2019 that Herriott made his Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra debut under Marc David in a performance of his 1st Piano Concerto " The Newfie Bullet”.

Beloved for his great sense of humour, his brilliant musicianship, and his deeply generous nature, Richard will be missed by all who were lucky enough to experience his unique perspective and eternally optimistic view.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis-St. Martin 46 Cathcart Street, London on Thursday Morning July 11 at 11 o'clock.  Those wishing to join via livestream may do so at www.londonsouthcatholic.ca 

There will be a reception to follow after Mass at St. Francis- St. Martin at 12:30 pm.

 Photo credit to: Michael McLuhan Photography