Joel Lawrence Richardson

Joel Lawrence Richardson, 77, formerly of La Grande, died June 24 at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, Calif., due to a sudden illness and complications after a surgery. A memorial service took place this morning at Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church. McCormick & Son Mortuary in Laguna Hills, Calif., is in charge of arrangements.

Joel was born Sept. 6, 1931, in La Grande. He graduated from La Grande High School in 1949 and from University of Oregon in 1953. He served as an Army chaplain in Korea after the cease-fire. He married Martha Van Camp Jan. 19, 1957. They settled in Salem where Lawrence worked in underwriting for State Farm insurance for 34 years. They enjoyed raising three daughters, Sarah "Sally" Elizabeth, Nancy Louise and Julie Janette.

Lawrence was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church in Salem for many years and more recently a member of Laguna Niguel Presbyterian. He enjoyed Bible study, men's groups and singing. He was ordained a deacon and an elder of the Presbyterian Church USA. He loved to travel, appreciated music - especially classical opera - and enjoyed hiking in the mountains. Those who knew him say he was a mentor and a friend to many. He pursued advanced education and received many training degrees in his profession. He battled Parkinson's disease for nearly 30 years.

Survivors include his wife, Martha; daughters, Sarah and her husband, Gordon Hagena, Nancy and her husband, Walt Linaweaver, and Julie and her husband, Col. Phil Smith; five grandchildren; and many other relatives.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church at 30071 Ivy Glenn Drive, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 or the National Parkinson Foundation, Orange County Chapter, P.O. Box 2207, Newport Beach, CA 92659.

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