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Donald Richardson Obituary
LEOMINSTER -- Donald "DJ" Richardson, 37 years old, of Concord, North Carolina, formerly of Leominster and Fitchburg, died Friday, December 25, 2009 in HealthAlliance-Leominster Hospital, after an illness.
He is survived by his two daughters, Rebecca
Richardson of Barre, and Zoe Richardson of North
Carolina; his son, Dakoda Richardson of North Carolina; his father, Donald W. Richardson, Sr. and stepmother, Karen (Joyal) Richardson of Leominster; his mother, Brenda (Wallace) Lauth and stepfather, John Lauth of Leominster; his maternal grandparents, Joan and Gerard Pellerin of Leominster; his sisters, CorrieAnn Gillen of Colorado Springs, CO, Tina Proctor of Orange, and Nicole Gagne of Phillipston; his companion, Crystal Pepin of Fitchburg; a stepbrother; a stepsister; aunts, uncles, cousins, and several nieces and nephews.
DJ was born on February 1, 1972, and had lived in Leominster and Fitchburg, before moving to North Carolina in 1999. He was an all around athlete, excelling in all high school sports. In 1997, DJ was treasurer for the Montachusett Dart Association, competing in tournaments on a pro level for the American Dart Association.
DJ went after his dream of becoming a part of the NASCAR family. His career started as a member of the Fox Sports Network as an on-board camera installer.
DJ had a natural gift and bullet speed hands for changing tires. He proved himself by winning tire changing competitions repeatedly.
In 2005, DJ won the NASCAR All Star Tire Changing Competitions, proving he was the best in NASCAR.
He went on to work for organizations, such as Bodine Racing, Penske Racing, Hendricks Motorsports, Petty Racing, Braun Racing and Richard Childress Racing.
Family and friends consider DJ's passing a great loss. He will be sadly missed.
RICHARDSON -- A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 11 am in St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 60 West St., Leominster. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 from 4-8 pm in the Silas F. Richardson & Son Funeral Home, 106 West Street, Leominster.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Richardson
January 26, 2010
I would like to express my sympathy to the entire family. I just got the news. I was the flight attendant for the Braun racing team on many occasions and he was a very nice man and a pleasure to know. God Bless you all - may you firnd strength and guidance in the days to come.
Tricia Anderson
Troy Case
January 20, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Emil Cook
January 20, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family . Dj , i met you thru your sister Corrie and i was so glad to have met you . We didn't interact too much but i always felt your character was genuine and didnt pull any punches. I am glad to have known you ,wish i had did more. May all the angels be with you
CorrieAnn Gillen
January 19, 2010
My dear brother: Words do not offer any justice as to the pain I feel knowing that you will no longer be here to share a birthday with or to simply pick up the phone. Over time I will find my peace in God's decision to call you home, but for now I draw comfort in knowing that you are in fact watching over me. I love you as much as any sister could a brother...as any human is capable of. You remain my hero, my defender, my protector...my guardian. I'll see you soon on the other side. XOXOXO
Terri Watkins
January 16, 2010
My thoughts are with you all in your great time of grief. I don't know DJ personally, but I've watched Nascar for so long that I feel like I do. I know his name and I've watched him change those tires. God is your strength. Lean on Him to help you through this painful time.
Bob Lull
January 6, 2010
Such a tragic loss to the families and friends as well as the racing community. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. 37 is far too young. Having lost my only sister a the same age, it's so tragic. May god bless you and give you guidance and strength in this most difficult time.
Debra Kelly
January 5, 2010
To DJ's Family and Friends,
I met DJ several years ago when he use to share a house with me and my boyfriend at the time in Mooresville. He was a great guy that always made me laugh. He was a great tire changer and will be missed greatly. My prayers go out to his kids, my father passed away when I was young so I know what you are going through, just know your Dad loved you very much. My God give all of you peace. God Bless.
Debra Kelly
Alexis Jarrett
January 4, 2010
Dear Richardson Family:
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you. I never met DJ; I became "acquainted" with him when he became a friend on my parking space on Dale Jr's Infield Parking website. I am still in shock about his illness and passing. I have made a contribution to the getweldj website and plan a contribution to assist his children. Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Alexis Jarrett
January 3, 2010
I met DJ in 2004,, wonderful person. He got me through my first NASCAR win with RWI racing. He tought me alot,,how to be calm,but yet aggressive. I know i will miss him,,and the whole NASCAR community will too. DJ thanks for all you have done for me. See ya later.
Greg Rimmer
Donna Sims
January 2, 2010
Dear Don and Karen -- It was with much sorrow that I read about DJ in the paper. Although I never met him in person your Mom kept me informed over the years of all the grandkids and their accompolishments. She was very proud of them all. She was the first one to attend the calling hours for our son that passed away at age 25; and I wish I could have been able to come to the calling hours for DJ and give you both a hug in person and say goodbye to him last Tuesday. It is so hard to recover from the loss of a child - no matter how old they maybe - but, we hope that you will have fond memories and see 'DJ' in his children as they grow into adults. Thinking of you and the entire Richardson family at this time.
Donna and Ron Sims
Jennia McCourt
January 2, 2010
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Richardson family,RCR and Braun Racing and the entire NASCAR community.
Tracy Geer
January 1, 2010
I had the pleasure of playing softball with DJ yrs back and he was such an inspiration. A great competitor, he left everything on the field no matter the outcome.DJ was a rare breed,he lived his dream and left a mark on everyone one he met.My thoughts and prayers go out to the Richardson family in this time of sorrow,he will be sadly missed
Brenda29 Pelletier
January 1, 2010
My heart felt condolences go out first and foremost to the Richardson family. May God be with you during this difficult time. Condolences also to all the Kevin Harvick team and NASCAR community. Though I didn't know DJ, I DO know how hard it is to lose a Loved One. May he rest in peace. May Comfort find your hearts. ~Brenda29~
David
December 31, 2009
To Don and family sorry to hear about DJ he was a great guy. DJ went for his dream, something lot of us dont have the guts to do. He will be missed by many from frinds to nascar. From David at aldrich towing.
Tresa Green
December 31, 2009
Our thoughts & prayers are with DJ's family,RCR team, Gil, Kevin, Richard & all that had the pleasure of working & knowing DJ. Whether we knew him personally or not the NASCAR family is huge & we all grieve for this huge loss.
Rhonda
December 31, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Helen Hodges
December 31, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with DJ's family. It is so heard to lose your loved one, but remeber that you have all of those beautiful memories that will soon become very imortant to you. I know because my childten and I have gone through it. May God hold you hand at this time.
Richie Gilmore
December 31, 2009
Please know our prayers and thoughts go out the DJ's entire family. He will surely be missed by the ECR and RCR families.
Jo Ann
December 31, 2009
Thoughts and prayers going out to DJ's family, friends, RCR, and the Nascar communtity. I'm so sorry this happened.
Eileen Patrock
December 31, 2009
Rebecca, Zoe, and Dakoda...remember your Dad loved you all and hold tight to those memories. Think of him often, grieve for him, talk about him with your friends, and know that he is so proud of all of you. Remember all the wonderful things that people have said about him, and remember that he was Dad...love to you all, Granny
Derrick Pierce
December 31, 2009
It was only a little bit ago I saw him out its hard to belive he is gone. DJ will be missed at the track and every where else.
December 31, 2009
I met DJ while interning at a race shop. A Gentle Giant. My thoughts are with your family & co-workers.
Leigha
December 31, 2009
I met DJ while interning at a race shop. A Gentle Giant. My thoughts are with your family & co-workers.
james morin
December 31, 2009
you gave me a wonderful grandaughter, in rebbeca, i will be forever greatful. jim morin
Lou Bucci
December 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Richardson family , Godspeed to DJ .
Gayle & Michael Lingerfelt
December 30, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Richardson family. DJ was a talented competitor but most of all a friend. We will truly miss our race day talks.
Carol Feehan
December 30, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dawn
December 30, 2009
To the Richardson Family Sorry to hear about your loss, I met DJ years ago and he was a great guy he will be missed by many.
Beverly Blalock
December 30, 2009
May God be near to you during this time.
Carla Mitchem
December 30, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
dani greenwood
December 30, 2009
my sincere condolences to his family..
Jeremiah Adams
December 30, 2009
I would like to offer my prayers and condolences to this familly in their time of need! Please know God is with you, and will help you to deal with this loss, if you let him!
Kathie Upchurch
December 30, 2009
I am stopping right now to pray for DJ's wife, children, family, friends and team through this time of great loss. I pray the God wraps his comforting arms around you all and gives you strength to make it through this most difficult time.
(A Team 48 fan)
John Williams
December 30, 2009
Don,
I am so sorry for your loss. It sounds like your son was a wonderfull man.
Tish Rodriguez
December 30, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Richardson family on such an unexpected loss. May God be with all.
Teresa Brantley
December 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God grace you with the strength and peace of mind. God Bless You!
Crystal Moyer
December 30, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Richardson family. Please know that in your time of loss, there are so many who have you in their prayers.
Laura
December 30, 2009
My deepest, most sincere condolences to DJ's family, friends, children and Crystal. It is with deepest regret that I didn't get a chance to meet this wonderful man. One only has to read the entries in this guest book to see how many lives he touched, near and far. It is my hope that you will be able to take some comfort in knowing that many are grieving with you...even those, like myself, who didn't know him personally. God Bless.
Tracy Czubaj
December 30, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Carol
December 30, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Even though you don't know me, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
From a NASCAR fan.
Dawn
December 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. May God bring you strength during this difficult time. I hope that you can find comfort in your memories.
Nancy
December 30, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Eric King
December 30, 2009
I wish to say just how sorry i am to hear of your loss DJ was the best at what he did. I also would like to say to the friends that he left behind dont be sad for him at this time he is doing what he does best he is in the pits with some of the best crewmen and drivers the world has ever seen he is with you always when ever you changing a tire or making an adjustment he is watching over you and Kevin he will be riding with you in the races to come
Bobby Burrell
December 30, 2009
My condolences to the Richardson family.I had the pleasure of working with DJ for many years.He was a great and entergetic person to be around.DJ was a awesome guy. he always knew how to made me smile.He will be dearly missed.He will never be forgotten.
Michael Klein
December 30, 2009
I had the pleasure of working with DJ during the last year and WOW what a guy. Thanks for the memories. I will not forget you.
Mike Napier
December 30, 2009
My condolences to the Richardson family. Just so sad, keeping you in my prayers. As a Harvick fan, DJ will be missed but never forgotten.
Dianna
December 30, 2009
NASCAR has lost a great person. My condolences to your family at this tough time.
Eugenia Hartley
December 30, 2009
To the Richardson Family and Friends,My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
Toni Carlson
December 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and NASCAR community during this difficult time. DJ will live on in your hearts. Treasure those memories. He will forever be watching over you.
Tina (Mantyla) Karlen
December 30, 2009
My deepest sympathies to my counsin Brenda and all the Richardson family. You will be in my prayers.
Dana Robaidek
December 30, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jonathan and Cindy Melton
December 29, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of great loss.
"drtywhtboy" Mike G.
December 29, 2009
My deepest sympathy to your family at this time of grief. May you somehow find peace and understanding, knowing
"DJ" touched many lives personally and impersonally. I only knew of him impersonally through his profession. May he rest in peace.
Laura Feeney
December 29, 2009
Heartfelt condolences from here in Canada. He will be missed.
SHARON GALLAGHER
December 29, 2009
Your contributions to the sport of NASCAR will not be forgotten.May GOD BLESS you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Wayne Holden
December 29, 2009
My condolences to the Richardson family as well as the Pellerin family, DJ will be sadly missed by all his friends
Mike Knauer
December 29, 2009
May God Bless you and your family during this time. DJ was a great guy and a true friend. He will be missed, but not forgotten.
Carol Haines
December 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends.May God be with you.
Donna Woods
December 29, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gary Herbert
December 29, 2009
My condolences to DJ's friends and family. When we lose a member of our racing family, we grieve as a family. God bless.
Art Almond
December 29, 2009
Your contributions to the sport of NASCAR will not be forgotten.... you will be missed by many in the industry, as well as many of us fans...
Art Almond
Infield Parking.com
Howie Englishman
December 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the Richardson family and friends at this time of sorrow. God bless.
Rose Chopp-Harju
December 29, 2009
My thoughts & prayers are with you all at this time of great sorrow. DJ will be greatly missed. May God Bless you and be with you at this most difficult time.
Kelly Gosselin
December 29, 2009
Brenda,
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sandie Longs
December 29, 2009
My condolences to the Richardson family. DJ will be missed {\o/}
Geneice Roberts
December 29, 2009
May the memories that mean the most to you live forever in your heart.
Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. May God bless you all.
Nell Hooker
December 29, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
JoAnne Holliday
December 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends of DJ Richardson.
Amy Butler
December 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Richardson family. I am sorry for your loss.
sharon martin
December 29, 2009
Chrystal and Donnies family :
My thoughts and prayers are with u as i remember Donnie as a great childhood friend. Taken so young can't imagine what u'se must be going through my sincerest condolenses
Geri Melnyk
December 29, 2009
My sincere condolences to everyone in the Richardson family. DJ went much too soon. The H1N1 virus strikes with a vengeance, has no mercy & everyone needs to consider protecting themselves. DJ is at peace now but his immediate family is not. You're in my thoughts, very sad and shocking. God bless.
Dawn Boudreau
December 29, 2009
Corrie and family. I am sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love Dawn Boudreau
Steven, Angela & Jared Schofield
December 29, 2009
To the Richardson Family, Our deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one.
Nichole, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shawn Pierce
December 29, 2009
DJ and I went to High School together. I just found out this summer that he was working on a pitcrew for NASCAR. He will be missed.
SSG Shawn Pierce
Elissa Ropi
December 29, 2009
Your family is in my thoughts during this sad time.
Selene Salas
December 29, 2009
Richardson Family
May your hearts be filled w/great memories of a beloved man,son& brother
may he R.I.P....! Friend Of Nicole's
Selene
Lane
December 29, 2009
May the wonderful memories of this talented man be in your thoughts at this time of loss.
Heidi Colony
December 29, 2009
I am truely sorry for your loss
Sheri Fortier
December 29, 2009
To DJ's Family My heart and prays are with you all, it was an honor to have DJ as a cousin, it was wonderful to see him grow. I was excited when I was told he became part of the Nascar Circuit, I looked for him either on the tv or when i was at the tracks.He will be greatly missed for use. All my love Cousin Sheri
stephanie owensby
December 29, 2009
i am sorry for ur lost he will be truely missed
Randy Martin
December 29, 2009
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
(Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!)
Steve,Cindy, Jason ,Mandy Jacob
December 28, 2009
to the richardson family, our thoughts and prayers are with you, it is truely a sad time. DJ will be missed by all who knew him
Kim
December 28, 2009
My Thoughts and prayers go out to the family
Barb and Joe Pendrak
December 28, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to the entire family for your loss. May God give you strength, and guide you through this difficult time. Special thoughts to Susan, and know we are here for you with whatever you may need. DJ will be missed, but not forgotten.
Megan McBrine
December 28, 2009
My thoughts are with the Richardson family during this difficult time, especially Becca, Zoe, and Dakoda.
SHANE PLEMMONS
December 28, 2009
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE RICHARDSON FAMILY. R.I.P. DJ
Lauri Lance
December 28, 2009
Please know that your family is in our prayers. DJ is part of the Nascar community and we are all family so this is a sad time for all of us. God Bless you all.
Kelli Grimster
December 28, 2009
My condolences to the family on your tragic loss.
Meaghan Greene
December 28, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. I will not say "I know how you feel, because I cant" but put your trust into God and he will help you thru this. Remember the good times each of you had with DJ, because that can never be taken away from you.
Lisa Correa
December 28, 2009
just want to send out my deepest sympathies to the Richardson family and every other person in DJ's life. To his children, I pray for strength, know your daddy is now in Heaven watching over you. He will always be with you, everywhere you go, you have your very own angel now. To the rest of the family, I pray for you all as you go on....keep the faith, and God Bless.
Chrisula Constantine
December 28, 2009
Deepest sympathies
Terri Quinn
December 28, 2009
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Richardson family,RCR and Braun Racing and the entire NASCAR community.
DJ...The world is a brighter place because of you.
Buddy&Gail Bedard
December 28, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Holly Palmer
December 28, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Lorna Solomon
December 28, 2009
My deepest sympathies to DJ's family,friends and RCR Racing
mary libby
December 28, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
December 28, 2009
Donald Sr. and Karen - May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Our deepest sympathy is extended to you and all
who have loved and lost this beloved man.
Sandra (Murphy)& Paul Gagnon, W. Kennebunk, ME; Evelyn (Murphy) & Peter Wolenty,Gardner, MA;
David & Dianne Murphy,Chico, CA; Jeanne (Maylin) & Joseph Sylvestro,
E.Hartford, CT
Barbara M
December 28, 2009
Prayers for the family to help them get through this time of great sadness. Remember all those good and wonderful times with DJ and they will help you. He will not be forgotten by the nascar fans.
june brown
December 28, 2009
Sorry for your lose. my throughts and prayers are with you all. God bless
Carole Boyme
December 28, 2009
DJ will be missed greatly by the Nascar community.
My thoughts and prayers go to his children and family.
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