Patricia "Pat" M. Richardson

Patricia "Pat" Richardson, a vibrant and dynamic spirit, passed away on September 26th, 2024, in her home in Naples, Florida, at the height of Hurricane Helene's storm surge. Born October 25th, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to Loyd and Gertrude Ebersohl, Pat grew up with her two siblings, Donna Burton and Steve (Pam) Ebersohl.

In 1962, while standing in the milk line at Thornton Township High School, Pat was discovered by fellow student Don Richardson. This serendipitous meeting blossomed into the strongest of friendships and 57 unforgettable years of marriage before Don’s passing in February 2024. Together, they built a rich and adventurous life, traveling the world, frequently relocating for Don’s work, and turning every new house into a home through Pat’s love of renovation and design. After raising their family, Pat pursued higher education, graduating from Indiana Wesleyan University in 1991, a testament to her lifelong passion for learning.

Pat and Don’s life together was blessed with four children: Kelly (Stephan) Masoncup, Matthew (Julie) Richardson, Michael (Beth) Richardson, and Sarah (Stephen) Werner. Eleven cherished grandchildren followed: Ryan, Lauren, Jacob, and Rebecca Masoncup; Joseph and Tatum Richardson; Ari and Ella Richardson; and Veda, Hendrix, and Mazarine Werner. Pat fiercely loved her grandchildren, who could do no wrong in her eyes.

Words cannot fully capture the essence of Pat. She never let moss grow under her feet. She had a natural talent for design, creating homes that were both timeless and deeply personal. An accomplished artist, Pat specialized in oil painting and left behind a legacy of hundreds of pieces, ranging from portraits to abstracts. Although she rarely sought recognition, her skill shone brightly when she won first prize at the Plein Air Paint Out at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center.

Beyond her artistry, Pat was an avid reader and had a deep passion for native plants, seizing every opportunity to plant trees and preserve the natural world. When you visited her, Pat would share her recent article clippings and expected discussion. Her strength, stubbornness, and unbridled independence were guiding forces throughout her life, even until the very end. Around the dinner table, she was always the first to insist everyone “eat more,” an example of her nurturing spirit. Her legacy of love and independence will live on through the countless lives she touched.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Door County Land Trust or that a native tree be planted in Pat’s honor in your backyard.

Rest in Peace.