Tonio Joseph Ricks

For 4 years, he served his country proudly in the Army, then served in the National guard. He had a successful, fulfilling career as a Civil Engineer working a variety of government jobs (the Army Corps of Engineers, the EPA, & FEMA), and was proud to have also contributed in rebuilding the Pentagon after 9/11, and the levees in New Orleans after hurricane Katrina.

Tony and Shelley were married only 12 short years, but enjoyed a multitude of adventures together in that time. Tony deeply loved his whole family and cherished all the memories and moments they shared. Crawfish boils, barbecues, camping, pool parties, games with the kids, holidays, and various family events really meant a lot to him. He was a gentle hearted man who will be remembered by those who knew him best, for his quick wit, intelligence, integrity, and how he never hesitated to lend a helping hand when asked. He enjoyed life to the fullest, with a smile that invoked smiles from everyone he met, and he had a true knack for sharing stories.

He loved God and attended mass every Sunday with his beloved wife. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, kayaking, listening to music, long walks on the beach and driving to his island home on Honeymoon Island.

Tony is survived by his wife Shelley (Volker) Ricks of Dunedin, FL; her daughter Shantel Volker of Brooklyn Park, MN; his mother Sandra Rauber of Covington, LA; and 3 brother's: Robert (Cindy) Ricks of Gulf Port, MS, Dino Ricks of Covington, LA, and Rico (Vicki) Ricks of Covington, LA; nieces and nephews: Lauren, Josh, Renee, Hannah, Shane, Cory, Mathew, and Rose.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Ricks Sr; and grandparents: Samuel & Gertrude Bondi and Frank & Marie Ricks.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 16 in Covington, LA on September 26, 2026 from 11 am - 3 pm. All are welcome. Burial services are still to be determined.

Funeral mass will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 9:00 am at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Crystal, MN. Burial will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN at 11:00 am.

Tony, my heart will never be the same. I love and miss you so, so much...

Love, Shelley