Dr. Robert Nelson Ricketts passed away peacefully, in his home, on May 28, 2015. He was born September 13, 1922 to Marie Nelson and Audley W. Ricketts in Oil City, Pennsylvania. He attended primary and secondary schools in Oil City and was a graduate of Mercersburg College and the University of Pittsburgh.
Robert Ricketts was accepted into the University of Pittsburgh Medical School in 1944 and attended one year, until April of 1944 when he entered active service with the United States Armed Forces. He was honorably discharged September of 1944 at which point he returned to his medical studies. He graduated with his medical degree in 1948 and completed his internship at a Pittsburgh hospital.
Robert met (Sylvia) Jane Forsyth of Seminole, Florida at the University of Pittsburgh, where she was also a student, and they married April 17, 1948 in a beautiful evening wedding in Seminole.
Dr. Ricketts left his private practice to reenter active duty in the United States Navy in October of 1952, being honorably discharged in September of 1954 at which point he and Jane and their two children, Robert, Jr. and Jan moved to Oil City, PA where they resided for the next 18 years. Dr. Ricketts practiced medicine in Oil City until he and Jane moved to Naples, FL in 1970.
Doctor Ricketts practiced family medicine in Naples from 1970 to 1986, and he served as Chief of Staff of the Naples Community Hospital from 1982 to 1984. Bob enjoyed many friends and activities, especially golf and tennis at the Royal Poinciana Golf Club. The Ricketts also enjoyed living near the beach most of their life in Naples. They supported many charitable causes and volunteered throughout their lives.
Dr. Ricketts was preceded in death by his wife Jane, his parents, and sister Joan Glass. He is survived by: two children, Robert Ricketts, Jr. (Julia), Jan Ferrari (Andy), and grandchildren, Christopher Ricketts and Kristina Ferrari (Danny), great granddaughter Amber Ricketts, and three nieces, Judy and Mary Glass and Anne Andreas (Larry).
A reception celebrating Robert’s life will be held Saturday, June 13th from 3 – 5 in the Forum at Terracina Grand, 6825 Davis Blvd., Naples, FL 34104.
Contributions can be made to AVOW Hospice or the charity of your choice.
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