Horace Paul Richardson Obituary (1936

Horace Paul Richardson, the only child of Paul Walter Richardson and Mary Frances (Shannon) Richardson was born at his parent's farm home southeast of Hastings, Iowa on December 29, 1936. Horace grew up at the family farm and attended North Grove School. He graduated from the Hastings High School in 1955. Horace worked and farmed with his parents. He was a member of the Hastings Methodist Church where he played the piano for 25 years. Horace was a gifted and versatile musician especially with the piano. He was a radio accompanist for Henry Schnoor, a local vocalist, for eight years on Sunday afternoons at station KFNF in Shenandoah, Iowa. He played in several dance combos in area towns plus volunteered for numerous civic events, weddings, and funerals. Once a month, Horace would play for the residents at the Nishna Cottage in Malvern. He enjoyed playing for the Malvern Fireman Frolic's and in 1976, played songs from all era's for the Malvern all-class reunion. Another of his talents was repairing antique radios and spring driven record players. Horace and his father continued to live on the farm following Mary's death in 1985. As Paul's health declined, Horace's role slowly changed from farmer to caregiver. Paul died in 1993 and Horace continued to live in the family home and operate the farm. Horace eventually sold the farm and in 2002 moved to the Manor of Malvern. While at the Manor, Horace continued to entertain residents with his piano renditions of favorite "oldies" and hymns. Horace died at the Manor on August 18, 2005 at the age of 68 years, 7 months, and 19 days. He was preceded in death by his parents.