Gary Leonard Ricketts

Gary Leonard Ricketts, 86, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 2, 2023. He was born on June 1, 1937 to his parents, Donald Ricketts and Gertrude (Jervis) Ricketts. Gary married the love of his life, Alice (Lehman) Ricketts on June 27, 1965. She preceded him in death on February 15, 2020.  

Gary graduated from Frankfort High School in the class of 1955. After high school, he proudly served in the United States Air Force. Upon returning to civilian life, Gary earned a bachelor's degree in business from IUK. Gary retired from Delco Electronics after almost 40 dedicated years of employment; ultimately working as their North American Business Director. 

Anyone that knew Gary would say he was an interesting guy who could talk to anyone about anything! He was well educated, unapologetically quirky and incredibly witty. Gary believed in staying current and informed. He made others better by fueling their fire for learning. People often left Gary’s home with a personally recommended book from his vast library. He was very well read; he also enjoyed going to auctions, golfing, playing poker, bowling, and was a member of the Tipton Elks Lodge.  

Gary cherished his dear family with his whole heart. In his own way, he took care of each of them and kept them all motivated to be their best self! Gary was a patient man and allowed himself the time to enjoy life. He appreciated fine dining, and well-aged scotch, bourbon, and wine. Gary was always at work planning the next family gathering, to enjoy good food and whatever silly movie he chose to watch with those he found most dear.  He enjoyed a bad joke, and enjoyed sharing those with his grandchildren. More than anything, Gary loved antiquing with his late wife, Alice. Together, they collected furniture and primitives, as well as postcards, books and other oddities.     

Those left to carry on Gary’s legacy of love are his children, Brett (Nancy) Ricketts, Jason (Jennifer) Ricketts; grandchildren, Breanna Robinson, Sarah Ricketts, Kaitlynn Ricketts; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.  

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Donald & Gertrude Ricketts; wife, Alice Ricketts; and brother, Ronald Ricketts. 

A memorial service celebrating Gary’s life will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023 at 5:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. In Tipton, with Pastor Riley Case officiating. A visitation for family and friends will take place prior to the service from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the funeral home.  

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ricketts family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Gary with his family on his tribute wall.   

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Leonard Ricketts, please visit our floral store.