THOMAS L. RICHARDS
Personal Life:
Thomas L. Richards was born on May 7, 1942 at Hillsdale Hospital. His parents, Norris and Mary raised Tom, his two older brothers and his sister in Reading Michigan. Tom Graduated from Reading High School in 1960. Between 1960 and 1966 Tom worked for the United States Post Office where he started as a clerk. In 1966 Tom joined the United States Army. After returning from his service in the Army, Tom returned to the United States Post Office and in 1977 began work for his dad at Richards Motor Sales while continuing to work at the USPS.
In 1976 Tom and Luetta Harold married and raised Brian, Todd, Aaron and Andy. They have 7 grandchildren.
Tom retired from the USPS and sold Richards Motor Sales in 2019.
Military Life:
Thomas L. Richards Joined the United States Army and served during the Vietnam Era. Tom did his basic training at Ft Leonardwood, Mo. He then moved on to Ft Hood , Texas where he served as a Chemical Supply Clerk for the remainder of his tour.
Awards and Decorations:
Good Conduct Medal
Armed Service Medal
Honorable Discharge
Community and Service Organizations:
American Legion Post 360 since 1966
Member of Post 360 Firing Squad for 45 years
Hillsdale County Fair Board Member since 2000
President Hillsdale County Fair Board since 2006
In Charge of the Hillsdale County Fair Veterans Day Parade since 2010
Active member of Reading Fire Department for 52 years
Member of Reading Athletic Booster Club for 30 years
President of the Reading Booster Club for 6 years
HONORS:
Recipient of Hillsdale County Marvin E. Howell Community Service Award, 2018
Tom said among his great memories are his time served as the person in charge of the Reading Athletic Booster Club Youth Basketball Tournament fundraiser. He started with 32 teams participating the first year and was able to recruit 140 teams for the last 15 years.
Tom was instrumental in helping Reading Fire Department raise $500,000 and the Reading Athletic Booster Club raise $750,000.