Ishpeming, MI - William "Bill" Richards, 58, died overlooking the pond on his horse farm. He was attended by his son and wife, and shortly afterwards by emergency personnel. We believe he felt no pain as he left this world and know he left behind the stressors of life and illnesses.

Bill is survived by his wife of 20 years Tonja Acker-Richards, and his beloved adult children Marie Richards, Allen Richards, Annika Olson, Norveig Olson (Alex), and Fjora Olson (Brandon). He was so proud of you all. Also, he loved as mothers, Joyce Richards, and his mother-in-law Carol Acker.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Theodore "Sam" and Elizabeth "Betty" Richards and his beloved sister Margo "Mugsy" Kari, and her son Brian. His deep love for Nick, Dale and Judy, Sam and Rae Richards, as well as the nieces and nephews, was so genuine.

Bill Boxed for the Ishpeming Boxing Club in High School and thoroughly loved his time with family, friends and at the family's Escanaba River camp. After Graduation from Westwood High School in 1983, Bill left for the military to support his young family and serve his country as a US Marine. He was stationed in Kuwait during Desert Storm. He was proud to receive military college credits, medals and was honorably discharged in July 1994. He worked as a Building Equipment Mechanic at the Marquette Post Office and will be remembered as someone who had strong character and the desire to do right by that beautiful 100 year old building. He enjoyed time at lunch making friends on Washington St. and bringing them his jokes, dimples, and Donkers' candy.

Besides cherishing their time too brief time together, after retirement Bill and Tonja ran a trail riding and sleigh riding business with their talented Norwegian Fjord horses and brought 100s of people of all walks to their Pond House Farm in West Ishpeming. Bill "the Sleighman" Richards was passionate, intense, and entertaining and will be missed in the equine community.

Bill's family will greet relatives and friends from 11 am to 1 pm Sunday September 17th at Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming with time to share memories of Bill at 12:00.  The memorial will be concluded with Military Honors by the US Marine Corps.

Bill's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com.

Please let him remind you that good men DO exist and that being a quality individual requires bravery, work, and a huge heart. If he loved you you are blessed, if he didn't it because you were not true. Be well. Be true.