John B. Ricknell

KEWANEE – John B. Ricknell, 94, of Kewanee, died at 8:10 a.m., Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at his home.

He was born on September 1, 1930 in Kewanee, the son of John and Anna (Ogren) Ricknell. He married Emilie M. Dolieslager on July 1, 1951 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kewanee and she preceded him in death on November 3, 2022. Survivors include a son, David Ricknell of Kewanee, three daughters: Lynda VanDyke of Prophetstown, Jennifer Fleming and her special friend, Terry Barker of Kewanee and Simone (Rick) Nelson of Eagle, WI, seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents, three sisters; Edith King, Olga Ricknell and Esther Walters and a son-in-law, Larry VanDyke.

John graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1949 and had taken voice lessons at Augustana College. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He was the non-perishable food manager for Eagle Food Centers for 30 years. He was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kewanee. He thoroughly enjoyed singing special music at various events including weddings, funerals and concerts. He enjoyed doing artwork, drawing and woodworking. He also operated Whimsical Crafts with his wife.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 12 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kewanee with Rev. Winston Grieser officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the church. The burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Kewanee Veterans Council. Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in honor of their great grandson. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements.

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