Zora Ameila Richardson, 101 years old, of Kalkaska, passed away Sun, Feb 15, 2004, at the Long Term Care Facility in Kalkaska.
She has lived at 522 S Cedar St. in Kalkaska for 72 years prior to entering long-term care three years ago. she attended People's Church in Kalkaska.
Zora was born Oct 18, 1902, in South Bend, IN, the second daughter of the late Samuel and Cora (Morris) Kreisher. She moved to the Kalkaska area when she was six months old along with many of the Morris family. The women and children traveled by train while the men followed with the teams of horses. She lived her early years on a farm in eastern Kalkaska County and attended Maple Grove School. She often said she could never seem to get all her farm chores done and still get to school on time.
Zora married George O. Richardson in 1926 in Kalkaksa. She was the manager of the Dahlquist Dime Store in Kalkaska for many years. Many will remember her for her kindness during those years. She was always willing to lend a hand to help someone less fortunate.
Zora loved animals, especially her cats. She enjoyed gardening, needlework, and crocheting. She kept in touch with her many family and friends through letters. Well into her late 80s she was still taking care of others, doing errands for "old People" (she was never "old" herself) and visiting shut ins. She volunteered at the Kalkaska Historical Museum, was a member of the Rebekah/ Oddfellow organization and the American Legion Auxiliary.
Zora worked hard her whole life and gave so much back to her family, friends, and the community. At her 100th brithday party, she said the secrets to a long life were hard work and a loving, caring attitude. She always had a smile and a good word for everyone she met. She was devoted to her family, offering wisdom, support, and large doses of love.
She is survived by her three daughters, Betty J (Robert) Anderson of Kalkaska, Norma J Blaskievich of Tampa, FL, and Janis D Leuallen of Traverse City; seven grandchildren, Rick, Kris, barb, Richard, Gregg, Brian, and Melissa; 11 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George, on Mar 14, 1974; her sisters, Emma Riley, Clara Marshall, and Hattie Schelske; and a brother, Howard, in early childhood.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm on Thu, Feb 19 at the Wolfe Funeral Home in Kalkaska. Services will be held at 1 pm Fri, Feb 20, at the funeral Home.
Zora touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
