James Patrick Richardson

December 16, 1935 - January 31, 2019

James Patrick Richardson, age 83, of Covington, MI passed away Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, L’Anse, MI. He was born in Chicago, IL on December 16, 1935. James graduated from high school in Chicago. He served in the United States Army and was a member of the XVIII Airborne Corps Sky Diving Team. After his military duty he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and worked for the Chicago Board of Health as a water microbiologist. He moved to the UP in 1968 and married the former Shirley S. Walat who was also from Chicago. James retired from CCIC in 1998 as a field electrician. After his retirement, he worked part time as a Unit Manager at the New Day Treatment Center. He spent a number of years as an EMT with the Covington Township Ambulance Service. He and his wife Shirley were official big game measurers for the Michigan Big Game Record Book. Shirley preceded him in death on July 28, 2002. James was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, L’Anse. He enjoyed gardening, growing pumpkins, deer hunting and watching the news. Mr. Richardson is survived by his sons James Richardson of Covington, John Richardson of Negaunee and Matt Richardson of Covington, grandsons Keegan, Dane, Rowen and Carsen and his brother Eric Richardson of Arizona. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley and his brother John. A memorial funeral service for Mr. Richardson will be held at a later date and will be announced at that time. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, MI has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.