George Abraham Richardson died July 20, 2011, in Tucson, Ariz.

He was born Aug. 20, 1918, to Thomas and Mary Ann (Hewson) Richardson in Palmerston North, New Zealand. He decided to leave school at the age of 14 to enter the work force, becoming a salesman for a large department store. After six years, he struck out on his own, operating a milk vending business for 15 years. During his career, he also was employed by international companies Nestlé and General Foods. When he was 19, he began attending gospel meetings and decided to follow Christ. In 1947 he married Nancy Bowman and, at age 60, he retired to care for his ailing wife. Following her passing, he traveled extensively, visiting the United States, Canada, Japan and Singapore.

While visiting Seattle, he met Erma Walker. They corresponded for a time, before marrying in 1982. They lived in West Seattle until 1990 when they moved to Enumclaw.

He is survived by his wife, presently of San Carlos, Mexico; daughter Connie Folks of San Carlos; sons Ron and wife Delilah Walker of Auburn, Wash. and David and wife Linda Walker of San Carlos; brother Jack Richardson and wife Muirean of New Zealand; sister-in-law Hilda of New Zealand; 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by brothers Tom and Bill Richardson, both of New Zealand, and first wife Nancy.

A memorial service will take place at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at the Enumclaw Expo Center fieldhouse (Pete’s Pool).