On Oct 8, 2000, Velma Rosemond Ricketts, 73, left this earth to be with the Lord.
She was born on Jan 18, 1927, in McMinnville, TN, the daughter of Arthur and Leona Craddock. When she was very young, her family moved to the Detroit area. This is where she met and married Robert (Bob) Ricketts.
While raising her family was her top priority, Velma still found time to enjoy the simple things in life. She attended Temple Baptist Church in Detroit, and was a Girl Scout Leader; she loved to sew and made many of her own clothes; she enjoyed camping trips with her family, listening to music; puzzles, crafts, and tending to her 'money-tree' plants. Eventually, she and Bob retired to the Kalkaska area. Besides enjoying her time with Bob, Velma volunteered at Kalkaska Historical Museum and attended Calvary Baptist Church. Those who knew her loved Velma for her caring, generous ways and happy outlook on life. This beautiful, wonderful woman, will be greatly missed by all.
Velma is survived by her husband of over 44 years, Bob; children, Bonny Powell of Alabama, Godon (Azure) Keevis, Bob (Mary Ann) Ricketts of Indiana, James (Karen Mahle) Keevis, Lloyd (Liz) Ricketts, Guy Ricketts and Jean Ricketts; sister Cartye (Gale) Johnson; 11 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; one great great grandson; and several special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She will be joining both her parents; brother J.R. Craddock; and sisters Mabel Smith, Carmyne Burgess and Chick Lazzaro.
A memorial celebrating her new life will be Sat, Oct 14, beginning at 1 pm at Calvary Baptist Church, 815 W. Dresden, Kalkaska; Pastor Larry Fetzer will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Munson Hospice or Calvary Baptist Church.
Friends may call at the church Saturday from noon until the time of services.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe Funeral Home Kalkaska.