Ricky R. Broderson

Ricky was born on December 28, 1945 in Littlerock, WA, son of Elar & Mable Broderson. Ricky lived in Toppenish for most of his 65 years, and graduated from Toppenish High School Class of 1964. Ricky started working for Del-Monte Foods in Toppenish in 1965 and worked there for 39 years until his retirement. For many years during Christmas season, Ricky purchased a Santa suit and donated his time to be Santa Claus for the children and City of Toppenish. Ricky lived in the same apartment for 48 years, until his health required him to move in with his niece, Cinder Fehrer-DeMontiney, who was like a daughter to him. Ricky never married nor had any children, so he lavished his love on his numerous nieces and nephews and their children. Ricky was a large man because he needed a large body to hold his HUGE LOVING HEART. Ricky like listening to opera, and loved anything to do with history, we called him a “Walking Encyclopedia”. He collected comic books from the time he was able to read, to the day he passed. Memories are plentiful of trips to the movies or the Dairy Queen with Uncle Rick.

Ricky is survived by brothers, Bill (Ann) Broderson, Jack (Lynne) Broderson, and Lynn Broderson; sister-in-law, Barbara Broderson and numerous nieces and nephews. Ricky also had a second family from his very special friend, Carol Schreck, whom he visited and harassed everyday. Ricky was like a son to her parents, a brother to Carol and her siblings, and an uncle to their children. He spent many Thanksgivings and Christmas dinners with them. He is preceded in death by his mother and father Elar & Mabel Broderson, his brother Verle Broderson, his sister Iris Jensen, and a niece Devra Broderson.

We are all going to miss his humor, smiling face, and huge loving heart. We will always love and miss you “Uncle” Rick! The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Emerald Care, Wapato, WA and Memorial Hospital, Yakima, WA for the special care they gave to Ricky.

At Ricky’s request, there will be no funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in care of Merritt Funeral Home, to a children’s support organization of your choice in Ricky’s name. Merritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be offered at www.merrittsfuneralhome.com