William David Ricketts

William David Ricketts, age 70, of Gladstone, passed away Thursday, August 5, 2021 at home in Gladstone, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 9, 1951 in Knight’s Cove, Newfoundland, Canada, the son of David and Catherine (McDonald) Ricketts. William was raised in Newfoundland, Canada where he also attended school. He went on to serve in the Canadian Merchant Marines and later moved to the United States. William married the former Linda L. Tyson on July 11, 1987 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stonington and she preceded him in death on April 20, 2019. Together, the couple shared nearly 32 years of marriage and raised 3 children, Carla, Stacey, and Richard. William was a stay at home father for many years, helping to raise their children and care for the family. In 2007, William and Linda relocated and made their new home in Gladstone. He enjoyed hunting, playing cribbage, and going on late-night casino runs. William also loved to build things and always had a project going.

William D. Ricketts is survived by 2 daughters, Carla (Thomas) Meyer of Gladstone, and Stacey (Tim) Nickell of Gladstone; 1 son, Richard Edward Tyson of Gladstone; 5 grandchildren, Matthew Meyer, Alicia Meyer, Dale (Bailey) Nickell, Nathaniel Charlson, and Aleena (Hunter) LaVigne; 4 great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Aria, Idamay, and Coleson; siblings Richard (Elsie) Ricketts, Nora (Everett) Ducey, and Linda Elson all from Newfoundland, Canada; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, William was preceded in death by 2 brothers, John Ricketts and James Ricketts.

A Celebration of William’s Life will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Carla Meyer’s home, located at 8992 Kipling R.5 Lane, Gladstone, MI 49837 where a meal will be served in William’s honor. 

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