Phillip "Phil" Charles Rickard

Phillip C. Rickard, age 77 of Defiance, passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Mercy Defiance Hospital.   
  
He was born on March 22, 1947 to the late Herman "Bud" and Edna (Carter) Rickard in Hicksville, Ohio. Phil attended Defiance High School, graduated from Antwerp High School, and participated in several sports. He entered the Military and proudly served his country, stationed in the Panama Canal Zone with the Military Police. Upon returning to Defiance he worked at Dinner Bell Foods for 23 years and at Sauder Woodworking until his retirement in 2013. On June 20, 2005 he married Mary (Aden) Batt Rickard, who survives. 

Phil was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Defiance Eagles ##372 and Moose Lodge #2094. He enjoyed spending time outdoors mowing the lawn, fishing, hunting, and camping. He loved running his Jeep on the sand dunes and sand drag racing, even winning a National Championship. He was a fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns, but would watch any team playing football. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and friends, always joking and making everyone laugh. 
  
Phil is survived by his loving wife Mary of Defiance, his son Philip J, Rickard, and stepdaughter Christina (Rich) Risner. He also leaves behind his grandchildren; Sydney (Blake Proctor) Batt, Tyler (Maci) Risner, Tiffani (Mason) Fintel, Hanna and Chloe Rickard, his sisters; Lucille (Gary) Memmer of Defiance, Pennie Rickard Young of Ocala, FL, and his brothers; Rick (Paulette) Rickard of Rising Sun, IN and Rich (Patty) Rickard of Bryan, OH.  

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother Christine Rickard, stepsisters Pam Jacobs and Cheryl Wilhelm, and stepsons Craig Batt and Michael Batt.
  
Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 5, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson/Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 6th at Zion Lutheran Church with Rev. Tom Zulick officiating. Phil will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery.
  
Memorials are suggested to American Cancer Society, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.

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