Elzear Joseph Ricard Jr.

Joe was born in Detroit on April 23, 1935 to Elzear and Louise. After high school, he joined the United States Army where he was proud to serve in the same platoon as Elvis Presley. He loved to share stories of this kind celebrity. Eventually, he would marry the love of his life, Kathryn Jean Donnelly...known as "Jeannie" to most, but always referred to as "Babe" by Joe. Together they raised three daughters: Dawn Choike (John), Diane Kosztowny (Jeffrey), and Debbie Rimac (Gordon), and they enjoyed eight amazing grandchildren: Amber, Kathryn, Alexa, David, Alex, Matthew, Anna and Jenna.

Joe also leaves behind his older brother Thomas Ricard (Marilyn), four nephews, eight nieces, and their beautiful families, all of whom he loved dearly.

One thing is abundantly clear. Joe was loved by so many. His giving and compassionate nature touched countless lives: from family and friends to strangers in need...even if that need was a simple smile; just something to let them know they mattered. Without being asked, he would give the shirt off his back if he knew he could bring someone joy or comfort. And he always put family first. We are blessed to have had him in our lives as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Please join us in celebrating Joe's life at the visitation; 2-9pm Wed., Sept. 24 and 2-9pm Thurs., Sept. 25 with a 7pm Rosary at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes, Clinton Twp., MI. Mass will take place 10am Fri., Sept. 26 (Instate at 9:30am) at St. Therese of Lisieux, 48115 Schoenherr, Shelby Twp., MI. Please visit www.resurrectionfuneralhome.com