John Gilbert Richardson

John Gilbert Richardson, 97, Crab Orchard, died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2006, at his home in Crab Orchard. He was born on a farm north of Crab Orchard on July 29, 1908. At age 28, he pursued his dream and graduated from the Lincoln College of Chiropractic Medicine in Indianapolis, Ind., and also took post graduate classes in Kansas City, Mo., and Wichita, Kan. After graduation, he opened his practice in Iowa, but with the hard times of the Depression, he eventually came back to Crab Orchard and worked with his brother at Richardson's Garage for over 50 years. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Ind. He was a World War II Veteran, past commander of the American Legion Post in Crab Orchard and former mayor of the town. He enjoyed traveling the country, dancing, good music and enjoying every day that was given to him.

Survivors: wife, Leona; daughter, Sharon Wallace of Lincoln; grandchildren, Dan, Van, Gary and Gerry Wallace, Janie Wallace, all of Lincoln, and Lani Relihan and husband Ted of Grand Junction, Colo.; one great-granddaughter; nieces, nephews; special friend, Janelle Wanek of St. Joseph, Mo. He was preceded in death by his by parents, James and Rebecca (McIlravy) Richardson, brothers, Art, Russ, Tom, Wayne, Lloyd and Harry, sisters, Mahala Krile, Mary Kellett and Velma Griffin.

Funeral: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, Wherry Mortuary, Third and Jackson streets, Tecumseh. Burial: Crab Orchard Cemetery, with full military rites. Visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m., and 9 a.m. until time of the service. Memorials to the Crab Orchard American Legion and the Crab Orchard Community Center. Wherry Mortuary, Third and Jackson streets, Tecumseh, in charge of arrangements.