October 8, 1933 ~ January 30, 2025
Thomas Frank Richardson, born October 8, 1933, in Duluth, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, in West St. Paul at the age of 91. He was the son of Frederick Richardson and Sylvia (Hill) Grothe. Tom faced the loss of his father at a very young age and was lovingly raised by his mother in Gilbert, MN, who instilled strength and compassion in her three sons—values he carried throughout his life.
A proud alumnus of Gilbert High School, Tom was a member of the school’s 1951 basketball team that achieved the remarkable feat of winning the state championship his senior year. Cheering from the sidelines was his high school sweetheart, Donna Aho, a spirited basketball cheerleader who would later become his wife and lifelong partner. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in teaching from the University of Minnesota – Duluth, where he laid the groundwork for a life devoted to learning and hard work. Tom dedicated the early years of his career to teaching high school social studies and history, while also coaching baseball and basketball and serving as a driver’s education instructor, sharing his passion for knowledge and shaping the minds of countless students.
Moving his family down to the Twin Cities in 1968, he later transitioned to sales in the cement trade for Sheily Concrete. He excelled in the industry and rose to become General Manager for the LaFarge Corporation, while continuing to educate and mentor many in the business. A visionary in his field, Tom founded the Minnesota Masonry Institute and the Iowa Masonry Institute in the early 70s. Though he officially retired in the mid-90s, he continued consulting until fully retiring in 2010.
Tom was married to Donna (Aho) Richardson for 69 cherished years until her passing in 2024. He was also preceded in death by their daughter Jill, and his brothers William “Bill” and Patrick “PJ” Richardson.
He is survived by his children: Michael (Sue), Steven, Laurie (Robert) Wing, and Scott (Beth Anne), nieces and nephews, as well as his many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.
A devoted husband, loving father & grandfather, cherished son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend to many, Tom leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and dedication. May his memory bring comfort to all who were lucky enough to know him.
Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 am Friday, April 4th, at Church of St. Patrick, 3535 72nd St. E., Inver Grove Heights, MN with visitation 1-hour prior at church. Luncheon to follow. Private interment.