Charles Charlie S. Ricker

Charles S. Ricker, 76, of Elida, died at 9:57 p.m., Saturday, June 4, 2011, at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born on February 2, 1935, in Ft. Jennings, to Sigmund and Clara (Meier) Ricker who preceded him in death. On Aug. 12, 1961, he married Geraldine T. Bendele who survives.

Mr. Ricker was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church. He was the owner and operator of Ricker Construction Company, and served in the U.S. Army. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards and spending time with his family.

On April 28 of this year, he was blessed with the successful activation of a Cochlear implant. This afforded him the opportunity to hear and converse with family and friends for the first time in many years, bringing him tremendous joy and contentment.

Also surviving are five children: Russell (Wendy) Ricker of Delphos, Mark (Paula) Ricker of Elida, Pamela Ricker of Findlay, Philip (Tera) Ricker of Braselton, GA, and David (Catherine) Ricker of Canal Winchester; eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Knueve of Kalida; five brothers: Richard (Noreen) Ricker of Ft. Jennings, Art (Diane) Ricker of Cloverdale, Arnold (Carolyn) Ricker of Continental and Sig (Carol) Ricker of Spencerville; and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Ricker of Spencerville.

He was preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Urb Schnipke; a brother, Eugene Ricker; a sister-in-law, Doris Ricker; and a brother-in-law, Frank Knueve.

Mass of Christian Burial and a celebration of life will begin at 10:00 A.M.on Wednesday, at St. Charles Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Gethsemani Cemetery, with military graveside rites by V.F.W. Post 1275.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, from 2-4, and 6-8 p.m., at Siferd-Orians Funeral Home, and one hour before services on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the SERTOMA, to assist people with hearing health issues.

Condolences may be expressed at www.siferd-oriansfuneralhome.com