It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of Wallace “Wally" Allen Richardson, the father of Sarah Richardson of Biological Sciences in the College of Science and Health.
He passed away on Nov. 19 at the age of 84
of COVID-19 after a long illness from Alzheimer's disease.
Richardson was born on Oct. 12, 1936, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to Garland Charles Richardson and Margaret Easter Richardson. He attended the University of Kansas where he formed lifelong friendships, especially within the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Following graduation with a B.S. in Business, he joined the Navy, serving as a Supply Corps officer. His work with the Seabees took him to Japan, Guam, the Philippines, Thailand, India and Vietnam. Following military service, he attended the University of Michigan Law School, where he received his Juris Doctor degree.
In 1963, Richardson joined the Lincoln firm where he practiced law for 51 years, specializing in real estate, corporate taxation and business counseling. He was the first Nebraskan elected to the American College of Real Estate Lawyers. For many years, he served as Managing Partner of his firm: Knudsen, Berkheimer, Richardson, and Endacott.
Richardson enjoyed giving back to his community through volunteer work. He served as president for several of the many organizations he supported: Lincoln Community Playhouse, Nebraska Arts Council, Mid America Arts Council, Downtown Rotary Club #14 and Country Club of Lincoln. He valued the friends he made through community service and his leisure activities. He also performed on stage at the Lincoln Community Playhouse, participated in the Round Table Discussion Club and Crucible Club and loved playing golf.
Richardson is survived by his wife of 57 years, Martha Cheever Richardson; daughter Sarah Claire Richardson, son-in-law Richard Hudson, and grandson Jobson Bernard Hudson; daughter Carrie Lynne Richardson; and brother Jay Lynn Richardson. He was preceded in death by his dear sister Miki R. Christophersen.
The family extends a special thanks to his loyal golf buddies who kept him playing the game he loved as long as he was able. They also are grateful for the people at Country House (One) who gave him skillful and loving care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Fondation Enfant Jesus, 1464 W. Webster Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614 (www.fej-usa.org).