Obituary: William E. Richardson

William E. Richardson (June 25, 1947 - December 2, 2023)

William E. Richardson, aged 76, passed away peacefully at his home in Colorado Springs, Colo., on December 2, 2023, surrounded by his family. Born to William Murray Richardson and Dealoris Emily (Steele) Richardson on June 25, 1947, in Tecumseh, Mich., William “Bill” was a loving, dedicated husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

Bill had many friends growing up in Manchester, Mich., and remained in touch with them until his passing.

From an early age, Bill found his joy in building. A tool-and-die maker for over 40 years, there was little that Bill couldn’t create. He held several patents at his place of work. After retirement he could often be found in his woodshop making beautiful pieces, including many handmade clocks.

He met his late wife, Christy Lee (Blackwell) Richardson, when he was 18 years old at the Oasis Restaurant in Des Plaines, Ill. They were married two years later after Bill returned from serving in the army during the Vietnam War. Bill and Christy had two children together: Julie A. Sosnowski and William D. Richardson. Christy and Bill raised their family in Rolling Meadows, Ill.

After Christy’s passing, Bill moved to Milford, Ohio, to be close to family. He lived there for 22 years.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Christy; his parents, William and Dealoris; and many close family members.

He is survived by his daughter, Julie (Scott) Sosnowski; son, William (CeeCee) Richardson; sister, Kathy Richardson; four grandchildren, Bryce (Phoenix) Richardson, Kyle (Elizabeth) Richardson, Brynlee Richardson, and Christina Sosnowski; and two great-grandchildren, Wren Richardson and Carter Richardson. He is also survived by his Aunt Lou Richardson and Uncle Chuck Steele, who remained very close to him throughout the years; his sisters-in-law, Susan Tuttle and Cindy (Rick) Riley; brother-in-law, Mike (Donna) Blackwell; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held in Michigan at Bill’s childhood church, Emanuel United Church of Christ at 324 W. Main Street, Manchester, on March 16, 2024, starting at noon. Gathering and refreshments immediately following church service.

Military services held at Norvell Cemetery, 12810 Austin Road, Brooklyn, Michigan 49230, at approximately 1:30pm.

For as little as $1 a month, you can keep Manchester-focused news coverage alive.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.