Arlo "Red" Wee Richardson

In Loving Memory of Arlo “Red” Wee Richardson
June 17, 1943 – May 16, 2026
Arlo Wee Richardson, lovingly known to many Firestone friends as “Red,” passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at the age of 82.

Arlo was born to Nels and Hilda Richardson and was raised alongside his brothers, Leo Richardson and Jewell Richardson, and sisters, Nadean Deming and Almeta Downard, all of whom preceded him in death.

He graduated from Ballard High School in 1961 and proudly served his country after joining the United States Army in 1964. During his military service, he was stationed as a training NCO at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii and later served honorably in Vietnam with Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 9th Artillery. He received and honorable discharge in November 1966.

On December 8, 1968, Arlo began his long and dedicated career with Firestone in Des Moines. He married in 1969 and became the proud father and three children: Erica (Richardson) Cory, Amy Richardson, and Andy Richardson.

Later in life, on September 21, 1994, Arlo found lasting love with Janet (Rueth) Richardson. The two blended their families into one loving home and shared four children: Debbie (Rueth) Gorman and husband Brian, Erica (Richardson) Cory, Amy Richardson, and Andy Richardson and wife Nicole. Arlo and Janet resided in Huxley, Iowa.

After 35 years of hard work and dedication at Firestone, Arlo retired in 2003. Retirement brought many cherished years for Arlo and Janet at their home on Oak Blvd, where so many of their best memories were made. He found joy in the simple things- working in the yard was one. Arlo took great pride in his lawn, and many would say he kept the best yard in town. Their days were filled with quiet happiness, whether they were traveling, relaxing at home, or enjoying outings to Prairie Meadows. Above all, their life together was full of love, laughter, and countless blessings that will be remembered always.

Among Arlo’s greatest joys were their grandchildren: Alli (Cory) Kohrt and her husband Kirklyn Kohrt, AJ Cory, JD Dunbar, Harley Runge, Levi Cole, Dawson and Drew Richardson. He was incredibly proud of his family and cherished every memory, and moment shared with them.

Arlo will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his loyalty to family and friends, his sense of humor, he always made a friend wherever he went. He will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Though we will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will remain forever.

May he rest in peace.

Visitation will be held on Friday May 29, 2026, from 2:00 p.m.- 3:30 p.m. A Funeral service will be held following the visitation at 3:30 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens. 121 NW 60th Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50313. Burial will be held at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in memory of Arlo “Red.”

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