Donald Richardson Obituary

Donald "Don" Richardson, age 81, of Brown City, Michigan, passed away on February 27, 2026. He was born in Yale, Michigan, to Laylon and Anna Pearl Richardson. He grew up on his parents' farm, where he helped milk cows, bale hay, and raise pigs. He graduated from Yale High School, Class of 1962, and later attended St. Clair County Community College.
He was a highly determined individual, a gifted builder, and a natural engineer. He hand-built a few boats, including one that he lived on while attending college. Don was a pilot and flight instructor. He flew helicopters during his training in the U.S. Army.
In 1967, he founded Laydon Company, which he owned and operated for nearly 40 years. He began the business in the garage and barn of the family farm in Brown City, including a 40' x 40' addition that he built by hand. In 2006, he founded Maple Valley Plastics. Don was a scuba diver and loved traveling around the world. He visited six of the world's seven continents, including African safaris, the Australian Outback, the Pacific Islands, exploring the Amazon jungle, and traveling through several Asian countries.
In 2021, he published a 447-page autobiography in which he shared stories of his upbringing, farm life, business life, and travels.
Don is survived by his spouse, Cheri; his three sons, Jack (Carrie) Richardson, Chad (Rachel) Richardson, and Brad (Julia) Richardson; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Donald Jr.; and his brother, Robert Richardson.
A private burial had been held. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, at Holly Meadows Golf Course Banquet Center, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. Copies of his book will be handed out at the celebration.
Don will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.