Donald B. Rickels, 81 years, of Sherwood, passed away Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at Twin Rivers – Genesis Healthcare in Defiance. Don was born June 21, 1934 in Paulding County, Ohio, the son of the late Edward B. and Ruth (Bryan) Rickels. He married Patricia A. Hosler on October 13, 1961 in Defiance, and she survives.
Don worked as a machine operator for SK Hand Tools in Defiance, for 45 years, retiring on August 1, 2000. He attended the former Hicksville Nazarene Church. Don enjoyed traveling, going to tractor shows and just a quiet drive down a country road to take in the scenery.
Surviving is his wife, Patricia; three children, Terry (Cheryl) Rickels of Continental, Ohio, Kathy (Bill Eddleman) VanKirk of Auburn, Indiana and Randy Rickels of Defiance; three grandchildren, Vanessa VanKirk of Auburn, Indiana, Kyle and Nathan VanKirk, both of Sherwood; three great-grandchildren, Kayla Sanchez, Caden VanKirk and Damien VanKirk; three sisters, Ilene Rickels, Loretta Rickels and Dinah Collins; six brothers, Denny McMichael, Oley McMichael, Byron McMichael, Tim (Shirley) McMichael, Jim (Nancy) McMichael and John (Jewell) Rickels. He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Gaylord McMichael, son-in-law, Thomas VanKirk and one brother, Eddy Rickels.
Funeral services for Donald B. Rickels will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 16, 2016 in the funeral home with Pastor Bob Knapp officiating. Interment will follow in Sherwood Cemetery.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.
Condolences may be sent to the family or the online guest book may be signed at www.oberlinturnbull.com
