Dean A Richardson's Obituary
Dean Richardson, age 87, passed away April 14, 2020 in La Mesa, California. He was born February 17, 1933 in Huntington, Indiana to Manford and Mary Richardson. Dean is survived by his loving children Pamela, Mark, and Brian Richardson, daughter-in-law Judy Richardson, his brother Lowell (Marjorie) Richardson, brother-in-law M. Larry Cook, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, as well as five nieces and six nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty Richardson, brother Max Richardson, and brothers-in-law Ray and David (Sandy) Hernandez.
In Huntington, Dean attended Huntington High, and Huntington College. He never forgot his hometown and spoke of it and his family often. He joined the Navy in 1953 and was stationed in Adak, Alaska and then San Diego. That is where he met his wife of 55 years. Dean left the Navy in 1955 and remained in San Diego and worked for 35 years at Alfred M Lewis and raised his family in La Mesa.
He was extremely active in Rolando Little League baseball with his sons as a coach, Board Member, and Field Director for over 10 years. At the same time Dean also coached many teams in the La Mesa Recreation basketball league with his sons and countless other boys. His favorite part-time job for over 36 years was the head of the Banner Crew for the San Diego Chargers. He was honored with a 50-yard line half time ceremony complete with an honorary jersey when he retired. He also did the banners and volunteered for the Holiday and Poinsettia Bowls. He was inducted into the Holiday Bowl Hall of Fame for his extraordinary efforts and service for over 30 years. He also volunteered for the 3 on 3 basketball tournament at Mission Bay.
Dean also had voluntary spirit and spent over 15 years delivering bread to various charities and VA and American Legion facilities. He was a great person and never hesitated to help someone in need. In his younger years Dean and Betty were avid dancers and belonged to the Calico Twirlers back in the 60’s and really knew how to cut a rug with any dance. Dean also played in a men’s softball league for many years in the 60’s and 70’s.
Dean's sense of humor and corny jokes were enjoyed by all and kept us laughing, even to the end of his life. In 2019 he moved to Elmcroft Senior Living in La Mesa as he suffered from Alzheimer’s which eventually took his life. His children are grateful because he still recognized them and always had a “I love you.” His family and friends will miss him terribly.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a funeral will not be held at this time. The family plans to hold a memorial service later in the year when we can all be together and remember his life and legacy. However, an online guestbook is available on www.greenwoodmemorial.com for any memories or messages you would like to share.
Pamela, Mark and Brian would like to thank all of their family and friends who have shown such an outpouring of support, concern, and love during this most difficult of times. It has meant the world to us. Thank you all so very much.
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