Joseph Richardson

Joseph Michael “Big Joe” Richardson
December 11, 1983 – October 20, 2020

Joe was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa. After moving in 2017 to be with his uncle, John Cowles, he had come to call Mason City home. Unexpectedly Joe left us far too soon at the age of 36.

Joe had a passion for life that was very contagious and, at times, hard to reel in. He was a fantastic cook. It brought joy to his heart to create dishes for others. He was also an avid music lover, attending many concerts and playing guitar with his “Pops”. Another favorite activity they shared was mushroom hunting. While Joe didn’t have children of his own, his heart was full of love for his many nieces and nephews. He was always their “Big Teddy Bear”.

Joe now joins those that have gone before him - Grandparents: Francis Cowles and Linda (Cowles) Pyle, Grandparents: Keith “Casey” Richardson and Kay Clifford, Uncle: Doug Richardson, Aunt: Mary McCarl, Cousin: Adam Richardson, Cousins: Ethan and Henry Nelson, and Cousin: Erin Cowles.

Joe left many family and friends behind to remember and carry on. This includes Parents: Mark Cowles and Deb Richardson; Stepmother: Angie Cowles; Sister and family: Jhana, Megan, Josh, and Charlie Richardson; Sister and family: Erica, Logan, Chloe, and Jocelyn Mutchler; Cousin and family: Shannon, Dan, Xander, and Tucker Nelson; Stepbrother and family: Chris, Susan, Grace, and Malia Kelly; Stepsister: Marie Kelly; Stepsister and family: Shauna, Jesse, Keysha, and AJ Gilchrist-Smith; and Aunt and Uncle: Rick and Carla Chipp.

Joe had a heart as big as the sky and he would move mountains for those he loved. His boisterous personality filled every room he entered. His deep, resonating voice and infectious laugh will be missed by all that loved him. May you find peace, rest easy now Joe. Until we meet again, and can have you wrap your arms around us in one of your amazing bear hugs, we will hold you in our hearts and miss you every day. We love you Joe, more than you’ll ever know.

There will be a celebration of life on Friday December 11th in Ankeny, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, his parents request a charitable contribution be made on Joe’s behalf to a charity of your choice.

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