Minerva "Mickie" Richards

Minerva "Mickie" Richards

June 21, 1953 - July 02, 2025

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Obituary

Madison - Minerva “Mickie” Richards, age 72, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at UW Hospital and Clinics. She was born on June 21, 1953, in Edgerton, the daughter of Lester and Melinda (Lean) Richards.


Mickie graduated from Edgerton High School in 1970 and attended MATC. She served in the U.S. Navy as a medic from 1970 until 1974. Mickie worked at General Motors for 32 years. She went on to work as an LPN for many years and loved to help and care for her residents.


She married Gail Gaustad on July 27, 2019 in Cannon Beach, Oregon. Mickie was an avid fisherwoman and enjoyed participating in Fishing Has No Boundaries. She loved anything outdoors. Mickie was a passionate golfer, loved reading and enjoyed seeing sights in the United States and Canada when traveling with her motorhome.


Mickie is survived by her wife, Gail; daughter, Marcie Pugh; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her previous partner, Gretta Pugh; parents; and brother, Jim Richards.


A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2025. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until the time of the service on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shelter from the Storm Animal Rescue or to the St. Stephen's Church Food Pantry, Monona.


The family wishes to thank Pam McCarty, Cheri Awtrey, Lori Hauschild and John Roidt, Rebecca Suda, Terry and Elaine Smith, Denny Reyes, Lindsey Gaustad, Tami Buckholz and Jonna Gaustad Leighton, Tudy Gaustad, The Landing Campground family, Deb Boushea, Dr. Molly Cole, Dr. Brianna Jelnek and the Union Corners Internal Medicine Staff for all of their wonderful care and support given to Mickie and her family. They would also like to thank her GM and Oak Park family, Madison EMS for their incredible effort and support.


“Mickie’s gone fishing AND golfing.”

Vote Blue!!


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420



Events

09
Visitation
Thu Oct 9, 2025 @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Get Directions
09
Memorial Service
Thu Oct 9, 2025 @ 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Get Directions

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Memories

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AR
A Memorial Tree was planted for Minerva "Mickie" Richards
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
B
Bryanna
Other •
Bree here, Mickie. Your passing has left an unfillable void, and I deeply regret that our time together was abbreviated. I had numerous matters I wished to discuss with you, as your kindness and empathy towards me were remarkable, much like Gail's. Our memories will forever be cherished, and I am convinced that you and your puppies are now delighting in each other's company. I wish you were still among us, and I have been questioning God, seeking an explanation for why He chose to take you from us. You were an extraordinary individual, and your loss has left me with a deep sense of sorrow. Nevertheless, I find solace in knowing that you will be watching over me during my surgery in September. You truly meant the world to me, and I will always love and miss you. May you rest in peace. With love, Bree. Thank you for everything you done for me and gail. you truly will be missed but not forgotten you always will be in my heart I will keep in contact with gail you both were equal to me I love both of you so much ❤️
CC
Cynthia Corum
Other •
Well, Mickey, I'm deeply saddened yet inspired by the incredible memories we shared. Your passing leaves an unfillable void, but I'm grateful for our enlightening conversations, delightful meals together, and your warm company. Your presence at the campground was a blessing, and I still visit your porch daily, reflecting on the profound impact you had on my life. Though your departure is difficult to understand, I take comfort in the knowledge that your legacy will live on through the countless lives you touched, including mine. You were a shining example of kindness, always willing to lend a helping hand and offer sage advice. Your generosity and compassion inspired me, and I'm honored to have had you as a friend. You will forever be in my heart and thoughts, and I'm committed to staying in touch with Gail, an extraordinary woman who, like you, has left an indelible mark on my life. I love you both dearly, and though you're no longer with us physically, your spirits will continue to uplift and guide me. Your memory will be a beacon of hope, inspiring me to live each day with purpose, gratitude, and love. You truly will be deeply missed, dear friend.
B
Bryanna
Other •
Well, Mickey, I'm deeply saddened yet inspired by the incredible memories we shared. Your passing leaves an unfillable void, but l'm grateful for our enlightening conversations, delightful meals together, and your warm company. Your presence at the campground was a blessing, and I still visit your porch daily, reflecting on the profound impact you had on my life. Though your departure is difficult to understand, I take comfort in the knowledge that your legacy will live on through the countless lives you touched, including mine. You were a shining example of kindness, always willing to lend a helping hand and offer sage advice. Your generosity and compassion inspired me, and I'm honored to have had you as a friend. You will forever be in my heart and thoughts, and I'm committed to staying in touch with Gail, an extraordinary woman who, like you, has left an indelible mark on my life. I love you both dearly, and though you're no longer with us physically, your spirits will continue to uplift and guide me. Your memory will be a beacon of hope, inspiring me to live each day with purpose, gratitude, and love. You truly will be deeply missed, dear friend.
+ 10
JP
Jenn Peltz
Other •
I just loved her, and her spirit of life! She always told you how it was and never sugar coded it. She was such a wonderful woman, she will be very missed. Gail, and her family my heart goes out to you all. This is a great loss.
BH
Beth Hawker
Other •
I was quite saddened to hear about Mickie's passing this past weekend. I have only known her for 6 months or so, and under the circumstances of her donating to out St Stephens Food Pantry. What a treat it was to chat with her, each and every time she and Gail showed up to donate another load of goods. Generous was truly her middle name! Mickie I am sure you will be missed by many--peace to your family near and far. Beth Hawker, Monona

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