We (Jerry Speir and Barbara Ewell) were deeply saddened to hear that one of our favorite neighbors for over 30 years has passed away. Angelo was always a delight, full of stories and adventures and recollections of Oak and Dante Street. We appreciated his devotion to antique cars and architectural gems along with his sly smile and wry humor. Losing Angelo will diminish us all--except for the joyous legacy he leaves us in his daughters and grandchildren, his incredible cars, and the stories--oh, the stories!

I met Angelo one evening as I was at the Maple Leaf Bar with my husband, Troy Adams. At that time,  we were both teachers at Audubon Montessori School, the elementary school that Julie attended. We had just bought a house on Burdette street. The conversation with Angelo started around an old mantelpiece in our kitchen. What struck me about Angelo was his ability to listen to others. His eyes wouldn't leave our eyes. He talked in great detail and expertise about all  the beautiful features he saw in old houses. He was sharing his passion with us. I will remember him as a consumate professional who loved his trade.

Met Angelo at Ponchatoula Model A get together. Great hobbies with Model A group. I was amazed at the family business on Solomon, he showed me around the place. We did meet up several times, I'm the editor of the Red Stick Model A Club, bought parts, visited the shop, impressed by his skill fixing the old A's. Miss him and a few others that have passed these few years I've been here in BR. Thoughts and prayers for your family. George Corse 

I have nothing but fond memories of Angelo. I watched him treat a lot of misfits, including myself with kindness and courtesy.
My heart goes out to his family.

Dear Mrs. Ricca and extended family: my deepest condolences. Angelo was so kind and generous. I was lucky to be acquainted with him through mutual friends. In the days of the walking parade, "A Confederacy of Clones", "Ken & Barbie Go To The World's Fair".  He was one of the organizers of the group. Just based on that tenuous connection, on my rare opportunities to get to the City, I would visit the store, and he would treat me like a dear friend. Years ago, totally unplanned, my friend Jay brought my son and I to your wonderful July 4th party at the Fort Pike camp. You and Angelo extended your kindness and hospitality. I just wanted to honor him. His kindness was extended to everyone.  I grieve for you. You and your family are in my thoughts and in my prayers. 

Angelo was the most gracious host my husband Jay deVerges and I have experienced, either at his shops or at his home ( where I arrived often unannounced as we moved from New Orleans pre cell phone) or as uninvited guests. He was ever welcoming always to both of us and we were the grateful recipients of Angelo’s grace, style and warmth! WHAT A RACONTEUR! Marie Louise Eaton

Rachel and family, you have my sincere condolences, love, and prayers for healing.  It has been many, many, MANY moons ago... (I don’t think I’ve seen him since I was a child).  I remember how patient and kind he was to us when it would have been easy not to have been.  My sister and I would frequent White Pillars and pretend like we were shopping.  We were loud, we touched everything, and I’m certain that we were not “good for business”.  He always had a smile, usually a chuckle, and always invited us to come back again.   He was genuine.  

Angelo’s spirit lives on in the many he touched. He was a good and real friend. 

OBITUARY

Angelo Joseph "Ricky" Ricca

June 15, 1947 – June 29, 2020

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

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