Paul "Rick" David Ricketson

Paul D "Rick' Ricketson peacefully earned his angel wings surrounded by his family on October 26, 2019. He was born January 9, 1924 in Limestone, Georgia. He joined the Navy when he was 16 and one of his proudest accomplishments was to serve long enough to become a World War ll Veteran. He was active duty until 1970 and then went on serve in the Civil Service until 1986. He received recognition from the Secretary of the Navy for over 43 years of loyal and faithful service results making a distinct contribution to the efficient operation of the Navy. A pretty proud moment for a little country boy who grew up running through the Georgia swamps His military career took him and his family all over the globe; however, he was always happiest when his assigned sea duty was Midway Island and two tours in Hawaii because his family could join him. Nearing the end of his military career he gave up a huge promotion because it would take him away from time with his family. What a life lesson for his two young impressionable daughters. He was such a sweet gentle servant who loved God first, family and friends, then his life serving his County. Our favorite military story was the time a pilot landing on the aircraft carrier made a sudden turn blowing him off the deck, but God had a plan for more years for him to serve and he landed right in the nets off the side of the deck. He was burned from the exhaust but he quickly healed and made it right back on the deck, a place he loved. He loved fishing anywhere there was water and a pole. He could often be found fishing off the pier at Pensacola Naval Air Station while on his lunch break and then again after work. He was an avid animal lover of any 4-legged soul in need of love and attention. Not sure how it was possible but they always loved him even more. He is a Shriner and a 32nd degree Mason. His sweet spirit and always his desire to always have a kind word for all he met will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife of over 50 years, Louise Ricketson; his daughter, Frances Bohlman; his mother, father, and several sisters and brothers. He is survived by his daughter, Dottie Hollingsworth; his loyal companion, Mary Klous; 5 grandchildren, Gary Bohlman (Faith), Sheri Radford (Shannon), Teri Franklin (Bill), Jerry Bohlman (Denise), Jonathan Hollingsworth (Sonya); son-in-Law, Gary Senior ( Doris); great-grand-children, Brandon, Michelle, Kathy, Chase, Tanner, Christopher, Christian and Aiden. Pallbearers, Dottie Hollingsworth, Jonathan Hollingsworth, Gary Bohlman Senior, Gary Bohlman Junior, Jerry Bohlman and Bill Franklin Honorary pallbearers Christian and Aiden Hollingsworth. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Project Visitation will be Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at Pensacola Baptist Temple beginning at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Glen Anderson will be officiating. Interment will be at Barrancas National Cemetery. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Pkwy is entrusted with the arrangements. You may express your condolences online to the family at www.fcfhs.com

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Paul "Rick" David Ricketson

January 9, 1924 - October 26, 2019