Willard Joseph Richardson's Obituary
Decatur-Willard Joseph Richardson, 83, of Decatur, peacefully passed away Monday, October 1, 2012 in his home with his family by his side.
Memorial services to celebrate Willard's life will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 5, 2012 in the First Church of the Nazarene, 1177 West Hickory Point Road, with Pastor Tim Lourash officiating. Military honors conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard will conclude the services at the church. Memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association.
Willard was born March 28, 1929, in Palestine, Illinois, the son of Edwin and Ruby (Martin) Richardson. He was a graduate of Springfield High School.
He retired from Caterpillar Tractor Company in 1990. He began his career at CAT as a timekeeper in 1956 and retired after thirty-five years of service as the Employee Benefits Manager. He was a decorated veteran of the U.S. Army from 1951-1953. He attended the University of Illinois, and he served on various boards and committees for the United Way and Visiting Nurses Association. He married Norma Ryder in 1982.
He leaves behind his loving wife and soul mate Norma, children Susan Richardson of San Antonio, Texas, Janet Richardson Shelton of Decatur, John (Paula) Richardson of Georgetown, Kentucky, Tom (Sheila) Ryder of Houston, Texas, Tami (Larry) Boyer of Moweaqua, Pam (Chuck) Burkhart of Decatur, as well as Bandit, his canine companion. He was grandfather to Derek Aalders, Caroline Richardson, Nichole Lynn Deberry, Michael Gulyash, Jonathan Drake, Thomas Morgan, Nicole Morthland Burkhart, Lucas Burkhart, Amber Howard, and Rick Rynders. He was also a great-grandfather to twelve.
Willard was considered a legend on the golf course among his 'golf buddies'. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and watching sports on TV. He was a diehard Chicago Cubs Fan.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at St. Mary's 6th Floor for their amazing and loving care, Dr. Kris Patel for twenty-three years of care, Dr. Khan for working tirelessly over the past six months, St. John's Home Health Care Nurses Debbie and Karen, the pastors of First Church of the Nazarene. Their compassion and commitment was above and beyond to Willard and his family throughout his illness.
He was loved tremendously by his family and friends and will be greatly missed.
The family of Willard J. Richardson is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home honored provider of Veterans Funeral Care, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. View the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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