Donald Edward Richardson

Donald E. Richardson (80) passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2024, at his home in Naples, Florida.

On August 14, 1943, Don was received into the arms of his parents, Ethel and Frederick Richardson. Don lived his carefree, happy, childhood in south suburban Chicago with his sibling Diane (Peter) Blatchley and the neighborhood children all who played baseball, red rover and cowboys.

After graduating from Thornton Township High School, Don entered Thornton Township College. The Chariots, his valued friendships, a 1957 Chevy and an exceptional Ford Edsel, all kept his days occupied. In 1961, a Boy Scout sponsored trip to Europe set the stage for his lifelong love of travel, beautiful landscapes and world history.

While waiting in the cafeteria milk line, Don discovered his sweetheart and fellow student, Patricia resulting in 57 eventful years of marriage. Serving in the United States Navy sent them to Bremerhaven, Germany and brought many new adventures as a young married couple. After working as a store manager, buyer and merchandise manager, he founded his own company as manufacturer's representative. His career required much international travel and family moves where he was well respected for his honesty and work ethic. In his spare time, Don restored, renovated and reforested his various homes over the years.

Four surprisingly opinionated children were welcomed into their lives amidst the various moves, Kelly (Stephan) Masoncup, Matthew (Julie) Richardson, Michael (Beth) Richardson, Sarah (Stephen) Werner. Don was a joyful and proud grandfather to Ryan, Lauren, Jacob and Rebecca Masoncup, Joseph and Tatum Richardson, Ari and Ella Richardson, and Veda, Hendrix, and Mazarine Werner, loving them dearly and always astounded by their beauty and brilliance.

Later in life and always smartly dressed, he and Pat moved to Naples, Florida and Door County, Wisconsin to be near golf courses and large bodies of water. Don loved golfing, the Men’s Tuesday coffee, meeting new people and copious amounts of gourmet food. His constant furred friends, including Chester Arthur and Mick Jagger, spent many contented lap time hours each time Don rested.

Home and happiness were defined by family visits for Don and brought immense joy, filled with tearful toasts, Cousin Olympics, water activities, and many, many pumpkin pies. The only dissension involved wildly diverse opinions of the Colts, Bears, and Packers.

The family will remember Don for all the heart and gentleness he shared with his family and friends. He genuinely loved them. Throughout his struggles with Parkinson's, he carried himself with dignity, strength, and full of love for those who went before him.

Don’s kind and gentle soul has left our world a better place.

Rest in Peace, dear one.

There are no services planned. A celebration of life will occur with details to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Door County Land Trust or a favorite charity.