John Earl Richardson

John Earl Richardson, 78, of Peru, Indiana, passed away July 1, 2025.

John, better known as “PJohn” to most, was born on August 15, 1946, in Peru to Dave and Thelma Richardson.  He graduated from Peru High School and served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam.

John was married to his wife, Cynthia (Whitt) Richardson, on November 1, 1969. Together, they shared more than 50 years of marriage before her passing.  John was a lifelong farmer, raising cattle, crops, and a wide variety of other animals.  He spent the majority of his career in printing, starting at just 16 years old with The Sentinel Printing Company.  He went on to work for Nixon Newspapers and The Paper before retiring from the Miami Correctional Facility.

John was deeply committed to his community.  He was a dedicated supporter of the Miami Lodge FOP, a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, and a member of the American Legion in Walton.  He was especially involved with 4-H, serving as a longtime 4-H volunteer and fair board member — roles through which he supported generations of young people.

He is survived by his children, Kelly Haupert and Blain (Jenny) Richardson; his grandchildren, Sarah Correll (Rian Browne), Theresa “Abby” Slabaugh (Jared Slabaugh), Alexa “Holly” Richardson, and James “Dave” Richardson; his great grandson, Jaxon “JJ” Slabaugh; his sisters-in-law, Judith Richardson, Kay Richardson, and Patricia Richardson; numerous nieces and nephews; and his Basset Hound, Cecil. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his siblings, Kenneth Richardson, Maxine Wright, Eldon Richardson, and Jim Richardson.

Most who knew him had a “PJohn story.” Instead of a formal funeral, an open house-style celebration of life will be held at the Miami County Fairgrounds on Sunday, July 27. Join the family for oven steak and stories in the Community Building from 2-8:00 p.m. Military rites will be held at 2:00 p.m. and Masonic services will be held at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Miami County 4-H Fair Board in John’s memory.

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.