Douglas Richards

Minot

Douglas L. Richards-69, Minot, longtime owner and operator of Richards Refrigeration, died Saturday, August 10, 2024 in his home.

Douglas Lloyd Richards was born December 27,1954, a son of Floyd R. and Vanetta (Springsted) Richards in Minot, ND. He was baptized on April 17, 1955 at First Presbyterian Church, Minot. He was raised and educated in Minot, graduating from Minot High School in 1973. Doug furthered his education by attending Bismarck Junior College. He returned to Minot and worked alongside his father for many years with the family business, Richards Refrigeration. In 1998, following his father’s retirement, Doug continued to run the company even at the time of his passing.

Doug was a man with a commanding presence; when entering a room his 6’2“, 300-pound body complete with a heavy beard and long hair!!! For those that did not know him it was kind of an “oh crap” moment, but to those that did know him they smiled and recognized that Mongo had entered the room and knew there was a good time to come.

Doug loved to ride his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He participated in many fundraising events, along with being a member of the FUGG’s group from the beginning of the group. He cut his hair numerous times, donating it to a special cause. He also was a prolific blood donor in his early years, earning his Gallon Pins along the way. This was following in his dads’ footsteps. He sadly will be missed by many.

Doug is survived by his significant other, Vanessa Kringen; sister, Sue (Kevin) Benson, West Fargo; brother, Jeff (Becky) Richards, Minot; nephews, Mike (Brooke Johnson) Benson, Fargo; Eric (Ashley) Benson, Fargo; Ian (Brittna) Richards, Glyndon, MN; niece Erin Richards, Boulder, CO; great-nephew Christopher Baecker, Japan, great-niece Isabelle Benson, Fargo; along with numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Floyd Richards, mother, Vanetta Richards-Rosenberg, younger brother Todd A. Richards and younger sister, Alene C Richards.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to assist with final expenses. Visitation: There will be no reviewal as cremation has taken place, however, friends may sign a guest register on Saturday, August 17, 2024 from Noon until service time at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot. Celebration of Life: Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 1 pm at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home Chapel, Minot. The service will be livestreamed and may be accessed by going to Doug’s web page at www.thompsonlarson.com.

Burial: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot. Interment at Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot following the service.

Published by The Minot Daily News, August 14, 2024.