Ivan Rickard

Ivan was born on May 14, 1934 in Pekin, Indiana to the late Don Rickard and Evelyn Terrell. He graduated from Pekin High School in 1952. He spent two years in the Marines and was a member of the Demonstration Rifle Team. In 1954 he moved to Eaton where he worked at the Sohio gas station while attending Miami University. He also met the love of his life, Joan, whom he married one week after graduation in 1958.

Ivan had a successful career in purchasing, working for Perfect Circle, Huffy Corporation and Belden Wire and Cable in Richmond, Indiana from where he retired in 1998.

Ivan was always involved in the community and volunteered for various groups including the Boy Scouts, girls’ softball, little league baseball and the band parents. He enjoyed being part of the Eaton Radio Club and American Legion. He also loved going to auctions, flea markets and garage sales in pursuit of the ultimate bargain (if he needed it or not). He had many collections including antique radios and pocket knives.

Ivan’s affable and laid back personality endeared him to many. He never met a stranger and loved a good conversation whether he agreed with you or not. He was always ready to help someone in need. He was passionately committed to his family, and made sure his wife was well taken care of even in his final days.

Ivan will be greatly missed by his wife, Joan Rickard; children, Scott (Patty) Rickard and Annette (Charlie) Vasulka; grandchildren, Andrew (Sarah) Vasulka, and Eva and Grant Rickard; and a large extended family and many friends.

A memorial will be held at a later time.