George Gerald Richardson, 81, a lifetime resident of Baker County, died Feb. 7, 2002, at St. Elizabeth Health Services.
His funeral will be Monday at 1 p.m. at the Baker City Elks Lodge, No. 388, 1896 Second St. Pastor Ralph Holcomb of the Baker City Christian Church will officiate. Ritualistic rites will be accorded by the Baker Elks Lodge, and military rites will be accorded by Baker City American Legion Post No. 41. Vault interment will be in Mount Hope Cemetery.
Visitations will be Monday from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m at the Coles Funeral Home, 1950 Place St.
George was born May 15, 1920, in the Keating area to Francis Wallace and Elizabeth Agnes Richardson. He spent his entire life in Baker County except for the time he spent in the Army defending our country in World War II.
George worked on his parents dairy farm and properties in the Richland area, and then was a log truck driver in Richland. In 1949, he purchased the Richfield Oil Agency in Baker City. By the time he retired in 1975, he and his wife, Jeanne, had owned several gas stations, the Arco Oil distributorship, the Goodyear dealership, and the Caveman Camper dealership in Baker City.
George was a man of many talents. He invented and began patent papers on the “The Sqaw,” a self-propelled mini tractor with winch; several fishing lures; and his favorite, “The Picnic Ant.” He painted many watercolors that his family will cherish forever. He also taught himself the art of making stained glass pictures. His work can be seen all over Baker County in homes, churches, the Elks Lodge and several businesses. Hunting was a part of his life from childhood. He was a crack shot and enjoyed taking his entire family and many friends on hunting expeditions.
George was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post No. 3048, American Legion Post No. 41, and the Baker Elks Lodge, No. 338. The Elks held an extremely important place in his heart. He was a past exalted ruler, district deputy, state Elks Scholarship chairman, and sergeant at arms to the state Elks president.
George loved God and was a member of the Christian Church in Baker City. Until his health prevented it, his favorite thing was going to church with Jeanne, Nicki and Michelle. He was a loving and caring father and grandfather. He was always there to support and guide his children in the good and the bad times. All of his grandchildren spent a great deal of time learning about life, hunting, and pride from him.
The family and togetherness were very important to George. He believed in and taught absolute truth and honesty. We will all remember him with love and admiration.
George is survived by his “Little Doll,” Jeanne, to whom he was married for 57 years; his son and daughter-in-law, George and Joanne Richardson; his daughter Nicki and her children, Allen, George and Michelle Worral; a great-grandchild, Chaz Worral; and numerous nephews, cousins and friends are left behind to remember him.
George was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Earl and Bob Richardson; his sister, Erma King; and two grandsons, Trent Richardson and Roger Worral.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Meadowwood Speech Camp or the Elks Youth Scholarship Fund. This may be done through Coles Funeral Home, 1950 Place St., Baker City, OR 97814.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, February 8, 2002
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor
