December 28, 1932 – February 4, 2026
Joan Hotle Richardson passed away peacefully on February 4th at Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa, California, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She leaves behind her husband of many decades, Sky Richardson; daughters Katie Rapozo and Lynn Richardson; and grandchildren Gabriel Rapozo, Skyler Flora, and Brandon Flora.
Born in Sonoma County, Joan lived in Guerneville until her father was promoted at the Bank of Sonoma County and moved the family to Sebastopol when she was eight. She was bright, curious, and an excellent student which led her to Stanford University, where she earned a degree in psychology. After graduation she moved to San Francisco and worked as a buyer for Macy’s Department Store.
At a mutual friend’s Christmas party Joan met Schuyler “Sky” Richardson, the son of a local rancher. They married when Sky returned from military service, embarking on a loving partnership that lasted almost 70 years.
She enthusiastically took to Sky’s love of the outdoors and when the family moved to Tahoe in 1971 she flourished, embracing hiking, backpacking, skiing, boating, golfing and fly fishing. Joan went to work for Alpine Meadows Ski Resort and was employed there for 26 years. She was also an avid reader, skilled bridge player, and member of AAUW.
Every fall she and Sky went fly fishing throughout the western states and Canada. The Klamath River in Northern California held a special place in her heart. She could cast a fly on big water with remarkable skill, so much so, that some men hesitated to fish beside her.
Joan and Sky had a true partnership. She was always game for the opportunities Sky brought to their lives like considering buying a pack station in the Eastern Sierras and starting a landscaping business in Tahoe City, which they did until Sky retired. After retirement, Joan took the lead in planning their adventures. She organized trips to Europe, New Zealand, Africa and South America with the same thoroughness and enthusiasm, she brought to everything. When the grandchildren came along, she delighted in creating adventures and educational experiences for them at every opportunity.
Joan’s skill in the kitchen was a gift she passed down to her two daughters. Her chocolate cake was legendary. Friends asked for the recipe, which she freely gave, but they complained that it never turned out as well as hers.
Her immediate smile, laugh and love of life were memorable. Those fortunate enough to be a part of her world knew they could always depend on her unwavering care, warmth and devotion.
