David Richardson

Four days into the New Year, David passed away peacefully at home with loved ones at his side. David was born in Santa Barbara on Sept. 22, 1932 to Elizabeth and Thomas Richardson. The family later moved to San Bernardino where Dave grew up. He was active in sports in high school, including track and tennis.

He joined the Navy in 1951. While stationed on Treasure Island, he was tapped by the Admiral to be his tennis partner. Later he was deployed to Hawaii. From Hawaii, his ship, the USS Reclaimer, was sent to Bikini site where the H-Bomb tests took place. Upon discharge from the Navy in 1954, he used his GI Bill to finish college at San Francisco State, majoring in Art and Spanish.

He met his wife, Colleen, in 1955 while they were both counselors at Camp Lagunitas and were married later that year. After graduation in 1959, he, Colleen, and daughter Denise flew to Guam where they both taught school for four years. Second daughter, Lisa, was born on Guam.  During their third year, Typhoon Karen almost blew them away in 200 mph winds. They returned to the States in 1963.

Helen Putnam hired Colleen at Two Rock School to teach kindergarten. Helen then helped Dave secure a job at Petaluma High School teaching Spanish. He later added photography, art, yearbook, and coached tennis. He taught at Petaluma High School for 29 years.

Dave had a love and passion for antiques and collectibles, which started his second career with his business, Richardson's Relics. He also enjoyed many years playing golf and bowling with friends as well as extensive world travel. He and Colleen celebrated their 45th anniversary going through the Panama Canal and their 50th with family members and friends on a cruise to Mexico.

Dave is survived by his wife of 63 years, Colleen; two daughters, Denise Carson (Robert) and Lisa Hackwood (Thomas); grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Tyler Carson (Allison), daughter Charlotte; and Amanda Horner (Richard), sons Cameron and Maxdon.

A celebration of David's life will be held on Sunday, February 10, 2019 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Petaluma Moose Lodge, 300 English St., Petaluma. Please make any donation to Hospice in his name, as they were very caring and supportive during his illness.