Richard L. "Dick" Rickel, 86, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Monday, September 10, 2012 at his home. He was born September 8, 1926, in Cozad, Nebraska to Otto R. and Helen (Godfrey) Rickel. Dick graduated from Lexington High School with the class of 1944. He then served his Country in the United States Army during WWII, from October 23, 1944, until being honorably discharged on July 24, 1946.
Upon Dick's return to Nebraska after his discharge he worked at the Majestic Theater, at a lumberyard and laid flooring for Graham-Edwards Furniture. He was united in marriage to Norma Young on June 11, 1950, at the United Methodist Church in Lexington.
Dick began a 27 year career with Cornland Dressed Beef in the maintenance department and then another 27 years as an electrician for Henry Orthman at Orthman Manufacturing. He retired in 1995.
Dick was always good with electronics. He loved fixing guns, working on guns and everything he was given as gifts he tore apart and put together again. He was active in the Gopher Smoker's and set up the communication center at Heartland Military Museum. He was an avid HAM Radio Operator with the call letters WA0RAK and active in the Central Nebraska Amateur Radio Club.
Dick is survived by his children: Jim (Natalie) Rickel of Lexington, Nebraska; Jeri (Dave) Jaixen of Grand Island, Nebraska, and Sue Hedges of Waterloo, Nebraska.
Seven grandchildren: Matt (Leslie) Irwin of Elkhorn, Nebraska; Becky (Rocky) Doerr of Andover, Minnesota; Carissa (Kyle) Stritt of Axtell, Nebraska; Beth (Aaron) Sauerland of Phoenix, Arizona; Brandon Howell of McCook, Nebraska; Josh Irwin of Des Moines, Iowa; and Trisha Rickel of McCook, Nebraska. Five great-grandchilren: Abby and Kaitlyn Doerr, Avery and Leah Stritt; Ava Sauerland, and one baby on the way! Brother-in-law: Dr. Gerald, Jr. and wife Lee Young of Barrington, Illinois
Dick is also survived by three nieces, one nephew, other extended family members and friends.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Norma in 2008 and sister, Mary.
The family has honored Dick's wishes that his body be cremated. There will be a Book Signing on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, from 5-7 p.m. with the family present at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington.
Memorial Services will be Thursday, September 13, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend Tess Hufford officiating.
Inurnment will be held in the Evergreen Cemetery at Lexington with Military Honors.
Memorials are suggested to the Heartland Military Museum, Lexington Volunteer Fire Department or the Donor's Choice.
Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward online condolences to the family through: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.
