Donald Richardson Obituary, Death – On December 12, 2022, Donald Eugene Richardson, age 83, of Wichita, Kansas, entered the kingdom of heaven to be with our Lord and Savior. He passed away quietly in his home, surrounded by his loving family. His funeral was held the following day. Don Richardson, who would later earn the title of Dr., was the child of Theo and Elverda Richardson and was born on May 17, 1939 in Thomas, Oklahoma. Don was a two-time state champion in football during his time at Thomas High School, where he also graduated in 1957 and was a member of the class. In addition to those activities, he was a saxophonist in the band, competed in track and field, and played basketball. In 1961, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford.
After receiving his Master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma, he went on to get his Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1979. He was a scratch golfer, an active traveler, and a passionate Oklahoma University (OU) sports fan. While Don was working on his PhD during the 1970s, he taught physical education at OK elementary school in Wichita. He was a fun-loving and cheerful instructor there. He served as the principal of the John Glenn elementary school in Oklahoma City, as well as the Stanley primary school in Wichita and the Rex elementary school in Haysville. Later on, Don retired from The Boeing Company, where he had worked as a management quality trainer. There, he was known as a warm and approachable individual who was also entertaining and influential in his role as an educator.
Don’s parents and his sister, Henrietta, passed away before him. Don is the only survivor of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Glenda; his sister, Gail Wood, who resides in Jackson, Mississippi; his daughter, Marla Rohrdanz (Geoff), who resides in Andover; his son, Bryan Richardson (Vona), who resides in Wichita; as well as his grandchildren, Ashley Wilson (Tyler), Nathan Richardson (Madi), Abigail Richardson, Sara Oliver (Thor), and Ryan Rohrdanz
We are respecting Don’s request that there be no memorial service held, but ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he passes away. Donations can be given in Don’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and Western Kansas at 1820 E. Douglas, Wichita, Kansas 67214; or to Good Shepherd Hospice at 7829 E. Rockhill, Suite 403, Wichita, Kansas 67206. Both of these organizations are located in Wichita. Downing & Lahey East Mortuary is in charge of the funeral arrangements.
