Michael "Mike" "Spider" Richardson, 74, passed away peacefully at home after his courageous fight with pancreatic cancer, on July 16, 2026. Born on May 25, 1952, Mike lived a life defined by service, generosity, conviction, and an unwavering love for his family, friends, and community.

Above all else, Mike valued his family. He was a generous and kind man who was always willing to lend a helping hand and believed deeply in doing what was right. His compassion extended far beyond those closest to him, touching countless lives through his selfless acts of service and dedication to making his community a better place.

Mike was a true community-minded volunteer who devoted countless hours to projects that benefited others. Whether it was clearing trails, cutting trees, or helping maintain the dog parks and Roundtop in Smallwood, he took pride in leaving every place better than he found it. In recognition of his extraordinary commitment to humanitarian service, he was honored with the Melvin Jones Fellowship from Lions Clubs International, one of the organization's highest distinctions.

A proud veteran, Mike served honorably in the United States Navy during the Vietnam and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. He carried the values of duty, integrity, and hard work with him throughout his life.

Mike's strong work ethic was evident in every job he undertook. He especially cherished his years working with Local 17 at Indian Point, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. Every year he designed and sold custom sweatshirts and T-shirt for cost only at the Indian Point outages.

Known for his unwavering convictions, Mike was never afraid to stand up for what he believed in. He remained actively engaged in civic life, regularly attending protests and supporting candidates and causes that reflected his values. Friends and family knew him as stubborn, outspoken, and strongly opinionated-but also deeply sincere, honest, and steadfast in his beliefs.

Mike had a tremendous love for animals, especially his dog, Otto, that he cherished over the years as his beloved canine companion and who brought him endless joy. He also had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, particularly Harley-Davidsons, and found freedom and happiness on the open road.

When he wasn't volunteering or riding, Mike could often be found outdoors, enjoying nature while working on trails or spending time in the woods. He embraced life's simple pleasures with enthusiasm, including sharing hearty meals with family and friends-never shying away from a generous helping-and appreciating music of every genre.

Mike will be remembered for his generous heart, tireless dedication to others, strong sense of justice, unforgettable personality, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends whose lives he enriched, the community he helped build, and the countless acts of kindness and service that will not be forgotten.

Mike is survived by his devoted life partner, Lisa Clark; his son, Tyler Richardson; Tyler's siblings, Justin Stage, Bryce Stage, and Alyssa Goldstein. His immediate family consists of Celia Miller, his beloved mom, and his siblings, Anne Miller and David Richardson. He was loved by Lisa's family: Cathy and George Gottesman, Mary and Joe Winsbi, Dave and Anne Ohman, and Amy Angelello, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Miller.

Mike will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Special thanks to the members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of White Lake for spiritual support, comfort, and the many meals. As well as the hospice angels: Loren, Kelly, Cindy, Wendy, and the night nurses, Ashley and Katherine.

A Memorial Visitation will be held for Michael on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Colonial-Ramsay Funeral Home, 3534 Route 55 Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749. A memorial service will take place at 5:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Michael's name to the White Lake Reformed Presbyterian Church, https://www.whitelakechurch.com/donate, Sullivan County SPCA, PO Box 995, Rock Hill, NY 12775 or https://sullivanspca.org/, and Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, https://hospiceoforange.com/give-now/.

Arrangements are under the care of Colonial-Ramsay Funeral Home. For further information please contact us at 845-434-7363.