Michael Brent 'Mike' Richardson, 75, Lenore
Michael Brent (Mike) Richardson, 75, of Lenore, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013, at his home.
He was born in Orofino Nov. 17, 1937 to Edith (Ball) and Omer Richardson. He graduated from Orofino High School in 1956. He married Carol Brown on June 1, 1964 and they made their home in Orofino with their two daughters. They were together for 35 years until her untimely death in October of 1999.
Mike served in the Armed Forces after high school, but was drawn back to the place he loved so much. He earned his keep driving about anything, primarily a logging truck for many years in the Clearwater area, as well as construction on the Dworshak Dam, and with many companies on highway and road construction throughout the Northwest area.
He loved the outdoors as a young child and grew up fishing, hunting, and camping in the Clearwater. He also had the athletic ability to do most sports, however baseball was his true passion. He loved everything about the sport and rarely missed watching or listening to any games available.
In his later years, he took solitude in the ranch home he grew to love and the nature that surrounded him. He had a green thumb and took pride in his garden, growing an abundance to share with others. At the end of a hard working day he could always be found sitting with his best friend, his dog, and enjoying the view in front of him.
Mike is survived by two children: Noelle Sharrai, her husband, Adam, and two children, Jane and Jess, of Valdez, AK; and Rena Pearson, her husband, Ken, and two children, Jon Henry and Helena, of Harrison Lake. His long time companion, Harlene Martin, of Lenore, also survives him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Judy; and wife.
A celebration of his life will be held at the VFW building at 330 Michigan Ave. in Orofino on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 1 to 5 p.m. Please bring your favorite dish for a potluck, any pictures you would like to share, and come join us in remembering our father and friend, Mike.
All are welcome, and in lieu of flowers, please make donations in his name to the animal shelter of your choice.
Transcribed by Jo Frederiksen