Steven Paul Richardson was born into the loving family of Robert and Patricia Richardson on April 28, 1948. He was born in Willmar, Minnesota, and grew up in New London, MN, a spot he often called his favorite place on earth. His childhood memories of ice skating on the pond outside his house, water skiing and running his duck boat up the Crow River in the summers, and camping trips with his family made him treasure his formative years. He also spent time keeping an eye on his favorite girlfriend, Teresa, who he proposed to in 3rd grade. (She said, “Yes!”) From a young age, he was active in Boy Scouts and earned his Eagle Scout Award as a senior in high school.
Following graduation from Buena Vista College in 1970 in Storm Lake, Iowa, he and Teresa were married and began their adventure in Alaska. Steve had a teaching degree for secondary art and biology, but the Lord placed him in an elementary classroom in Nome, AK. There, he discovered his true calling to teach younger students, especially 4th graders.
He continued his teaching career in Ft. Yukon, Eagle River, Anchorage, and finally in Valdez, AK, where he taught primarily 4th grade. As an encore career, he worked at the local museum, specializing in Valdez history for students of all ages. He was creative with his lessons and had a hands-on approach, loved by all who were learning from his teaching.
He had the chance to influence the lives of hundreds of students throughout his career and for many, “Mr. R” was a favorite. He was a storyteller and also had a sense of humor that delighted both friends and students. His love of music and guitar was ever-present in the classroom, and his example of honoring God in his life left a deep impression on those around him.
He served as an elder at Bayside Community Church in Valdez for many years and also led music there for countless church services.
After 43 years in Alaska, Steve and Teresa decided to migrate South to be closer to family and see what life was like “in America” as Steve would say. They settled in Lyons, Oregon, made new friends, became members of Emmanuel Bible Church, and served in the children’s Sunday school and music ministry at EBC.
Steve is survived by his wife Teresa; son Peter (Erin Kissane) of Astoria, OR, and their daughter Juna; daughter Angela (Ryan McGraw) of Silverton, OR, and their children Jack, Levi, Gavin, and Anna Kate; and daughter Julie (Taylor Austad) of Portland, OR, and their children Fiona and Erland.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Pat Richardson, and his brother Jim Richardson.