John "Jack" Joseph Richardson

John “Jack” Joseph Richardson, 98, of Belvidere, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Alden Meadow Park Rehab & Health Care in Clinton, WI, surrounded by his loving family.

Jack was born on December 16, 1926, in Dixon, IL, and was raised by his mother, Mary Marsden Richardson, and stepfather, William Richardson. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. On June 10, 1951, Jack married the love of his life, Darlene Elaine Nath, in Belvidere, IL.

A devoted member of his community, Jack belonged to the First Presbyterian Church, the Belvidere VFW, Belvidere Masonic Lodge #60, and the Scottish Rite Valley of Freeport. He also honorably served in the National Honor Guard for the VFW for many years.

Jack was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed golf and bowling in his younger years. He had a remarkable talent for woodworking, creating treasured pieces for his family that are now cherished heirlooms. Known for his organization and attention to detail, Jack took great pride in working alongside Darlene in their yard, earning “Yard of the Month” countless times.

Following his military service, Jack worked at the National Sewing Company, served as a Belvidere Fireman, and even drove a taxi between firehouse shifts. He later retired from Sundstrand Corporation, where he worked as a design engineer. Though Jack left high school during his sophomore year to serve his country, he went on to have a prosperous and accomplished career, teaching himself the many skills he excelled in throughout his life.

Above all, Jack cherished the time he spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He took great joy in his family and leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion. Jack was the epitome of a life well lived and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Darlene; his son, Kim (Cary) Richardson; daughters, Jacqueline (Mike Coles) Krause, Jody Schillo, and Kellie (Brad King) Richardson; his brother, William Richardson II; and sisters, Anna and Elizabeth Richardson. He was the proud grandfather of Jennifer (Kenny), Jamie (James), Jessica, Shea, Alyssa, Kyle (Samantha), and Stevie (Justin). Jack was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Belvidere Funeral Home, 203 Logan Ave, Belvidere, IL, officiated by Pastor Buss. A time of visitation will take place from 9:00–11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at Belvidere Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in the family’s name.