Onamae (Nelson) Richardson (70, b. 11-29-1953) was the oldest of three children (Orlan, Lyndon) born to Delmer and Marion (Thiel) Nelson, in Kenmare, ND.

Ona suffered a series of strokes beginning in early July, unable to recover from them. She passed away on Aug. 31, 2024.

Ona was an “only daughter” in a farm family where her love of hard work and simple joys was first nurtured. These values carried her through life, shaping her into a person who always gave her all, whether she was working or caring for her family.

She attended the Kenmare school district and beginning in middle school she fell in love with music, drums and piano. Ona graduated from KHS in 1971.

Ona attended Minot State Collage and was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority.

As a gifted piano player, Ona had the ability to express the deepest emotions through music, bringing beauty to every room she entered. Known for her quick wit and sense of humor, Ona could light up any gathering with her laughter and jokes.

There were many nights in the DZ house where ‘rag time music’ was played and good times were had by all. Ona made many friends from this time of her life and was still close to them via Face Book connections after retirement.

After college Ona spent time in Portland Oregon working for Far West Bank. One of her fondest memories was getting together with friends during the Thanksgiving holiday to bake over a thousand Christmas cookies that they donated to a local women’s shelter.

Ona’s next career move was to begin working for Nike in the early years as a technical writer and later becoming a knowledgeable Business Analyst. Her career lasted over 30 years.

While working at Nike, she met her husband, James Richardson. They were married for 35 years and had two sons (Reece and Neal). After the birth of the boys, our summer vacations were spent back in North Dakota on the family farm. The boy’s believed this was the best vacation place ever.

Ona was a talented cook, and her kitchen was always open to those she loved. Many will remember her not just for the meals she lovingly prepared, but for the way she made everyone feel welcome and cherished in her home.

Ona loved to entertain during family holidays and wrote the best Christmas cards.

Ona’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, hard work, and joy. She was a woman of deep compassion, always ready to help those in need, and her strength and warmth will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ona was preceded in death by her father Delmer Nelson, and niece Kristin Nelson (Orlan and Diane.

She is survived by: Mother Marion Nelson, Minot ND; husband James Richardson, Portland OR; children Reece (Mackenzie) Richardson, Hillsboro OR; Neal (Ashley) Richardson, St. Helens OR; brothers Orlan (Diane) Nelson Minot ND; Lyndon (Becky) Nelson, Kenmare ND; nieces: Keri (Kalvin) Larson, Lyndsie Nelson, Halie (Nelson) Dorval, Katie Nelson: step granddaughter Ava Brinster.

In her memory, may we carry forward her love for life, music, and laughter. She had an enthusiastic sense of humor and always loved to tell a delightful story.

For those who would like to honor her with a memorial contribution, we encourage you to contribute to the charity of your choice.