Ben was born in Lake Orion Michigan, the third of six children to Stanley and Clara (Lang) Richardson. Ben's father was a nondenominational minister who immigrated from Canada. As a young man he met Ben's mother Clara in Michigan. The family moved often, in 1943 they began their journey West. Some of Ben's favourite places were, Trinidad and LA, Junta, Colorado. Ultimately they ended up in the Phoenix Arizona area where Ben attended Christian High in Glendale.
Ben's curiosity for how things worked began early, as a young boy he dismantled the neighbours clock to see how it operated, and as a young man he often would repair friend's cars. Ben used his talents throughout his life building 3 beautiful homes, one from an old decommissioned bridge.
In the late seventies he bought a partially built Skookum Haul turning it into a beautiful 48' trawler "The Lady Alice". And for more than 30 years we spent our summers travelling North through the Inside Passage.
When Ben and I retired we spent the winters at our home in Yuma Arizona. We also bought a motor home and travelled throughout the Southwest.
Ben worked for the Boeing company from 1968 to 1995. He travelled all over the world for their AOG program, he also held many lead positions in mockup and on the flight line. He worked extensively on the 747 line as an electrical engineer, and did some work for the military and space division.
In 1954 Ben enlisted in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic he was stationed in Japan. He was honourably discharged in 1962.
After 41 wonderful years together the Lord called Ben home on March 3rd.
We began our love affair the summer of 1980 and I will cherish all the beautiful memories we created. Impatiently I await until we meet again my love.
Ben is preceded in death by his parents; Stanley and Clara Richardson, Sister; Carolyn, his Brothers; Robert and David. He is survived by his Wife; Alice Richardson, Children; Renee Richardson (husband Mike Schway), Benith Waltke (husband Richard Waltke), Grandson; Nate Schoone, and four Great Grandsons. Stepchildren; Donna Barr, Denise (husband Darrell) Wigdahl, Robert Howard, Step Grandchildren; Erin, Derik, Rena, Shari, six Step Great Grandchildren and a Great Great Grandchild, sisters Elizabeth Zampini and Mary Ellen Schlossler, along with many Nieces and Nephews.
Memorial services will be held Friday, March 12th, 12:00pm at Purdy and Kerr with Dawson Funeral Home in Monroe, Washington. Interment at Sultan cemetery to follow.
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