Martin Hans Ricker

Martin Hans Ricker was born in Stuttgart Germany in 1943 at the height of World War II. His mother, Lydia, died when he was 9. He lived with his grandparents until he, his father -Thomas, and little sister - Doris, immigrated to the United States where they lived with family in North Dakota until his father married his second mother – Margaret. Thomas and Margaret gave Martin his second little sister, Ann Marie.

Martin grew up in Minneapolis and spent his adult life largely in Minnesota. Martin was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather (AKA Boppy) and as well a beloved uncle. Martin married his wife Beverly (Lilley) in 1966 and had two children together, Natalie and John. Martin and Beverly celebrated 57 years together. Martin had a varied career, always being of service to others, as a teacher, computer operator, bus driver, and pastor. He volunteered in many ways and his bright smile and friendly chats were always appreciated. He loved to take care of people and always wanted to feed any visitor. One thing he was not was a chef. His “casseroles” consisted of 3 or more ingredients mixed together without spices and baked at 350 for 30 minutes. We loved that he wanted to care for us, so we always ate what he cooked and now we treasure his “recipe” cards.

Martin died at home after three years bed bound with Parkinson’s.

Martin was preceded in death by his mother Lydia Moll Ricker, father Thomas Ricker and second mother Margaret Geiger Ricker.

Martin is survived by his wife Beverly Ricker, his children Natalie (Tim) Ricker Buckman, and John Ricker, his grandchildren, Taylor and Shea Buckman. Also his sisters Doris (Dave) Harrington, and Ann Marie (Mike) Meints and Frito who loved him very much and spent 3 years providing comfort as his therapy dog.

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