Gerald D. Richardson, 95, of La Porte, Indiana passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2020.
Gerald was born May 17, 1925 in La Porte, Indiana to George and Naomi (Schmidt) Richardson.
Gerald was the owner of Richardson Electric in La Porte for over 65 years. He served his country during WWII in the Army Air Corps.

On June 6, 1954 Gerald married Shurla Smith who survives. Gerald is survived by his wife of 66 years, Shurla; four sons, Bruce (Laura) Richardson of Waynesville, North Carolina, Brad (Dawn) Richardson of La Porte, Indiana, Byron (Dana) Richardson of La Porte, Indiana, and Brian (Jackie) Richardson of La Porte, Indiana;  seven grandchildren, Kelly, Nolan, Christopher, Lindsay, Kyle, Mallorie, and Brock; and seven great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charles and Larry Richardson; and great-grandson, Lennox.

Lana Richardson has written a special eulogy for her grandfather:

"For the last two weeks, the Richardson family came together for one of the strongest men I have been blessed to know. A man who could fix nearly everything. A quiet man. A gentle giant. He was quick-witted and spunky. He came off as intimidating but deep down had one of the kindest souls. He was a no-fuss kinda guy who quite simply...lived an honest life.
He would always grab your face and kiss you goodbye. He smiled adoringly at his grandkids and then his great-grandkids. H e was so proud as he smirked at their every move.

He was the one to call if you needed help. Grandpa Jerry was constant. He was security. And man, he loved his wife. Their bond was strong and their affection never fizzled - even in these last days. Last week, as the family gathered around and he was fading in and out, he tried so hard to look at each person in the eye. He gave extra time as if he was stamping our faces into his memory. At one point, he broke the silence and said as he looked around, “I’m making a goodbye movie.” He held off another week and while his will kept him here longer than anticipated, his heart had come to peace with passing and we lost this beautiful man this morning. Husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather. The best roles he played. 

I will hold his memory so close to my heart for as long as I live. I hope to possess a fragment of his grounded-ness, his intelligence, and the deep love he had for his family.

The Richardson family are undeniably a team. They reinforce one another’s strengths and help carry the burden of any weaknesses. They are the direct result of Grandpa Jerry’s legacy and I know he was so proud. Regardless, I would appreciate if you could keep everyone in your thoughts, send love, or pray. I believe I will see him on the other side of the stars. Until then...RIP Gerald Richardson, May 17, 1925-July 15, 2020."

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. Burial will take place at Heckman Cemetery at a later date.
Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at Essling Funeral Home.com.