Humanitarian, businessowner “L.T.” Richardet dies at age 65

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This community is mourning the passing of Lynn Thomas "L.T." Richardet, 65, of Perryville, who died Wednesday, Dec. 25 at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau.

Born on July 22, 1959, to Ralph and Rose "Tootie" (Schloss) Richardet, he was baptized in the Christian faith.

Richardet, who died on Christmas Day, was loved by many whose lives he touched as a father, grandfather, entrepreneur, farmer, son, brother, uncle, cousin and a dear friend to countless people.

Many people in the area knew him as the owner of Richardet Floor Covering in Perryville, but he was much more than that.
Richardet was known as a kind, generous, hardworking, fun-loving man with a “larger than life” personality. From his days playing on the softball field to his love of singing and playing music, Richardet was a person who embraced life to the fullest.

Possessing a passion for the finer things in life — he could often be found with a cigar in one hand and a drink in the other, along with a pair of his signature sunglasses that he wore with style. Richardet had a love for traveling, enjoying a nice dinner with close friends and losing track of time in the clock-less “lounge.”

In 2022, Richardet was honored by the Perry County Community Foundation with its Humanitarian of the Year Award at a ceremony held at the Robinson Construction Event Center.

Perry County Community Foundation Advisory Board member Frank Robinson noted at the time that Richardet was the very definition of a humanitarian.
“For those of you that know Lynn are well aware of the role that he and Richardet Floor Covering, Inc., play in the community.” Robinson said. “Many business owners find it difficult to keep a connection to a community as the business grows and requires more attention for the founder.

“Lynn has found a path that differs from that pattern. From the number of local citizens that are RFC employees to the multitude of local events and charities that he faithfully and generously supports, Lynn displays the attributes that Humanitarian of the Year award seeks to recognize. He used his energy to lead and fund many of those events.”

Lynn’s generosity knew no bounds. He faithfully supported local schools, fundraisers, and charities, always giving selflessly to help others. He was especially passionate about helping veterans and played a key role in supporting the annual “Getting’ Sauced” BBQ event, which brought the community together for a great cause.

On June 11, Richardet and Richardet Floor Covering were recognized by the Saint Francis Foundation with a Donor of Distinction Award for leadership giving; and on June 20, organizers of the annual Getting’ Sauced Barbecue presenting donations to a number of area veterans service organizations, as well as $60,000 to Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial.

Many of us may never fully know the humble ways Lynn helped behind the scenes, but his impact will be felt for generations.
Concluding the biographical section of the obituary, the family wrote, "Lynn T. Richardet, you will be deeply missed. 'Ol buddy,' your spirit will forever be with us."

Survivors include his Lady Bird, Robin Huber Sims and her daughter Maggie "Tweety" Barron of Perryville; previous wife, Tamera Bohnert Richardet; two sons, Jesse (Laura) Richardet of Perryville and Justus Richardet of Perryville; three brothers, Randy (Tammy) Richardet of Perryville, Rodney (Mary Beth) Richardet of Perryville, and Rick (Connie Werner) Richardet of Sedgewickville; sister, Cindy (Joe) Huber of Perryville; grandchildren, Audrey, Townes, and Soren Richardet; along with many nephews, nieces and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville and will continue from 9 to 9:45 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

A celebration of life for "L.T." will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville with the Rev. Joe Geders C.M. officiating.

Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Perryville.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Lynn T. Richardet Scholarship Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.