Rev. J. Lawrence Richardt

Rev. John Lawrence Richardt

September 4, 1937 - July 7, 2025

In a world of noise and often lack of clarity, Larry was an attentive and effective listener. Most of us search for and celebrate the moments, when we meet someone who sincerely accompanies us in our hopes, fears and celebrations without attempting to change us. Larry was that guy.

His innate ability to hear and clarify, enhanced his formal training as a priest with a Licentiate in Sacred Theology and Certifications in Spiritual Direction. He held positions of teaching at St. Mary-Of-The Woods College and St. Meinrad School of Theology, encouraging his students to celebrate their mission in the world.

His pastoral ministry took on many forms through various assignments as: chaplain, academic administrator, tribunal judge, spiritual director and parish pastor. His greatest love was listening for the inspiration of the Spirit in which he could accompany another, both inside and outside the boundaries of the Catholic Church.

Larry was a fierce supporter of Native American culture and the arts including the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, the Eiteljorg Museum and Newfield’s. He took time browsing the galleries and enjoying beauty in all things.

The eldest son of the marriage between John Jacob Richardt and Wanda Mildred Goodson Richardt, John Lawrence Richardt was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis in Rome on December 19, 1962.

His younger siblings, Joseph Wayne Richardt (Bonnie), Marilyn Rose Evan (deceased), Susan Eileen LeMond (Paul) and Stephen Keith Richardt (Sharon), his nephews Brian (Sandee) Richardt, Dan (Sarah) Richardt and Kirk (Lesley) Richardt  remember Larry's unconditional support for family traditions and celebrative gatherings, along with their children and grandchildren.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday, July 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. in SS. Peter & Paul Cathedral, 1347 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, with a brief vigil service at 4 p.m. to begin the time of visitation.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Cathedral with Archbishop Charles C. Thompson presiding.  Burial will follow services in Our Lady of Peace Catholic Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions have been suggested to the Eiteljorg Museum.  Envelopes will be provided at the Cathedral.  

To order flowers or leave the family an online condolence, please visit www.LauckFuneralHome.com

May we too have the courage to listen and guide without judgment.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. J. Lawrence Richardt, please visit our floral store.