Barbara Richardson

Barbara Jean Richardson, age 91, of Baxter, MN, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025. Born on May 26, 1934, to Robert and Ethel Begin (Mikulecky), Barbara lived a life marked by love, devotion, and quiet strength.

A proud graduate of Edison High School in Minneapolis, Barbara dedicated her professional life to serving others as an administrative assistant at Brainerd High School. Her kindness and diligence left a lasting impression on students and staff alike.

She married the love of her life, Andrew Richardson, on January 9, 1960. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support—a legacy that lives on through their children and grandchildren.

Barbara was deeply committed to her community, volunteering at senior living and nursing care facilities and actively participating in her church guild. Her faith and compassion were guiding lights throughout her life.

Her adventurous spirit led her to travel far and wide, including cherished trips to the Holy Land, Italy, Hawaii, Mexico, and many states across the U.S. Her favorite destination was Georgia, especially the historic charm of Savannah.

Barbara found joy in simple pleasures: reading, playing cards and games with loved ones, and expressing herself through writing, especially poetry. Her words often captured the beauty of everyday life and the depth of her heart.

She is survived by her three children: Therese Nelson (Steven), Joel Richardson (Michele), and Darin Richardson (Kris); nine grandchildren: Ashley Kreps (Jason), Andrew Richardson (Kristin), Alison Falenschek (Joel), Samuel Richardson (Ashley), Mitchell Nelson (Carissa), Emily Kulzer (Scott), Maxwell Richardson (Lauren), Ryan Richardson (Jenna), and William Richardson; twelve great-grandchildren; and her two sisters, Kathleen Schmitt and Cheryl Begin.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andrew Richardson; her parents, Robert and Ethel Begin (Mikulecky); and her brother, Robert Begin, Jr.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love of family gatherings, and her ability to make everyone feel at home. Her legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and deep familial love.

Barbara’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Hills Crossing Senior Living and Moments Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.

A service will be held to honor Barbara’s life at St. Andrews Church in Brainerd, MN on Friday, October 3, 2025 with a visitation starting at 10am and Mass at 11am.

“O can of paint, o can of paint, in powder room do sit and wait.

O can of paint, o can of paint, the walls could dance in blues of slate.

Her whims could end your time of fear, have patience for another year.

O can of paint; o can of paint, the empty can we celebrate!!!”

By Barbara Richardson