William Anthony Ricketts (1867-1922)

RICKETTS, SMITH, KERN

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 6/20/2024 at 17:23:42

From Ames Daily Tribune and Times September 19, 1922 (page 1)

W. A. Ricketts Funeral to be Held in Nevada Tomorrow

Burial to Take Place in the Ames Cemetery.

Funeral services for Sheriff W. A. Ricketts, 57, who died at his home in Nevada early Monday morning will be held from the Christian church at that place tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock with Rev. Mr. Hoff in charge. Burial will be made in the Ames cemetery with the Masonic lodge in charge at the services.

All of the local Masons are requested to meet at the hall at 2:30 when they will form in a body to march in the procession. The member of the Masonic lodge from Nevada will also attend the funeral.

In respect to Sheriff Ricketts all of the games, sports, and entertainments of the farmers and merchants picnic to be held tomorrow at Maxwell park, adjoining the cemetery will be suspended for 15 minutes.

Native of Ohio

Mr. Ricketts was a native of Ohio, having been born near Coshocton Jan. 5, 1867. He came to Iowa when he was 16 years old and was married to Miss Belle Smith, Sept. 30, 1886.

He spent the early part of his married life as a farmer in Warren township, after which he moved to Ames where he served many years as city marshal.

Mr. Ricketts was first elected sheriff in 1904 and served five years after which he returned to Ames and later resumed his position as city marshal here. Four years ago he again became sheriff and at the last county primaries was nominated by the Republicans as their candidate for another term.

All Children Home

It was several weeks ago while at Ft. Madison with a prisoner that Sheriff Ricketts suffered from an attack ptomaine poisoning. The case, according to physicians, was not a serious one and developed slowly. Later while at the county officers convention at Dubuque he was taken ill and was compelled to return to his home. A few days later his illness developed and he was taken to his bed.

Two of Sheriff Ricketts daughters preceded him in death. There are now left with the mother three sons and one daughter, Dr. Robert Ricketts of Zearing, Bernice Ricketts of Ames, William Ricketts of Iowa City, and Mrs. Gladys Kern of Ames. There are also a number of grandchildren, besides brothers and sisters.

All of the children are now at the Ricketts home. Those who are expected to arrive at Nevada this evening are Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Henderline of Omaha, and Andy Ricketts of Coshocton, O. No word has been received from the other brothers and sisters.