CDS mourns the loss of Karl Richardson, 98

Chicago Dental Society Executive Director Emeritus Karl S. Richardson died Aug. 4 at his home in Florida. He was 98.

Mr. Richard served CDS as Executive Director for 29 years, beginning June 1, 1950.  He was awarded honorary membership at the 114th Midwinter Meeting immediately prior to his retirement. In bestowing the honor, then-CDS President Richard G. Fischl said that it came from the Board of Directors “as a testimonial of their love and affection and in appreciation of his years of tireless and dedicated service to the Society.”

Mr. Richardson’s tenure began after a lengthy interview process that drew him to the top of a pool of 75 candidates. He continued to serve the society for many years after his retirement as a Senior Advisor.

"Karl was a truly unique individual who willingly shared with me his knowledge of the Chicago Dental Society and provided counsel and guidance whenever needed,” said current CDS Executive Director Randall Grove. “His great humor, storytelling and ability to send me to the Thesaurus will always be remembered and cherished.  Karl epitomized what true professional association management is all about.  I will miss his reassuring words and friendship."

Mr. Richardson’s wife, Mary Lou, said his years at CDS made Mr. Richardson very proud, as he was instrumental in the establishment of Children’s Dental Health Week, the fluoridation of Chicago’s water supply in 1956, and the growth of the annual Midwinter Meeting. Attendance at the Midwinter Meeting more than doubled during that time, and Mr. Richardson was universally respected for his gentle way of dealing with the growing number of exhibitors that make the meeting strong.

Mr. Richardson was a member of the American Association of Dental Editors, founding president (1973) of the Association of the Component Society Executives, member of the Professional Convention Management Association, member of the American Society of Association Executives, member and president (1978-79) of the Conference of Medical Society Executives of Greater Chicago, and member of the Executive Service Corp. of Chicago. Upon his retirement, Mr. Richardson was given honorary membership in the American Dental Association, the Illinois State Dental Society, the Chicago Dental Society and the Odontographic Society of Chicago, in recognition of his contributions to the field of dentistry.

In his free time, Mr. Richardson was an avid horseman, all-around outdoorsman and sports enthusiast. He flew flags for the University of Michigan, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears in Florida during each team’s games.

Mr. Richardson, himself an Eagle Scout, hosted Boy Scouts from his hometown of Ottawa for campouts at his residence in the Barrington area, northwest of Chicago.

Mr. Richardson was also an avid reader, and thus served as a consultant and supporter to the CDS’ Fortnightly Review and its successor, the CDS Review.

The son of an architect, he was interested in buildings of all kinds. He was especially knowledgeable of Chicago’s historical landmarks.

Mr. Richardson graduated from the University of Michigan, where he earned a football letter and was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He went on to serve with the U.S. Navy in World War II. He served on the U.S.S. Pitt in the Pacific, and traveled for many military reunions well into his retirement.

Mr. Richardson is survived by his wife, Mary Lucille (nee Lindrooth) Richardson; daughter Pamela Ippoliti of Evanston; stepdaughter Nancy (Tim) Hellyer of Granger, IN; stepson Michael J. O’Donnell of Estero, FL; grandchildren Jennifer and Allyson Hellyer, and Robert T. O’Donnell, of Estero, FL, and Elizabeth O’Donnell, of Madison, WI; niece Melanie (Michael) Dundy, of Oregon; nephew Douglas Richardson, of California; nephew William (Karen) Richardson, of Barrington; and grandnephew David Kelliher, of Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean Lawson Richardson, son Jason M. Richardson, son-in-law John A. Ippoliti, and brother Donald F. Richardson.

Services will be held Thursday, Aug. 14, at 3 p.m. at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 647 South Dundee Ave., Barrington, IL. A reception will be held immediately following the service at the Hilton Garden Inn, 2425 Barrington Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL. Interment will be in St. Michael’s Garden Columbarium at a later date.

The family requests that memorials in Mr. Richardson’s name be sent to Alexian Brothers Bonaventure House, P.O. Box 148187, Chicago, IL  60614-8187.

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