Jack Rickerson

Jack E. Rickerson, 77, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

He was born July 26, 1947, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of Homer Rickerson and Emagene (Howghton). He received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Kansas. He served in the United States Navy. 

Jack was employed by the State of Kansas for 34 years and loved his time serving his community and the state. Over the course of his career with the state, he always said “My best bosses were women.”

Jack married the love of his life, Judy (Specht) Braswell on September 19, 1980 in Topeka, Kansas. Judy who was his world, preceded him in death on April 12, 2024. 

He is survived by children Jeri Cole (Brian) of Topeka, Aaron Braswell of Topeka, Sarah Olson (Jorey) of Duluth, MN, Seth Rickerson (Anna) of Minneapolis, MN, Paige Rickerson of Topeka and Tori Rickerson of Topeka; grandchildren Justina Dawson, Bailey Cole (Nic Simons), Pavin Cole, Clara Degerstrom, Julianna Degerstrom and Lauren Rickerson; great-grandchildren Avah Dawson, Mylei Dawson, Charlotte Simons and Eleanor "Ellie" Simons, all of Topeka.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, sister Jane Rickerson and brother Ed Rickerson.

Jack enjoyed his retirement years with his two dogs Doc and Hank at bark park. He loved spending time with his dogs and the friends he made along the way. Those friendships, along with his neighborhood friends, remained a bright spot in his life over the years until his passing. He will be missed. 

Some of Jacks thoughts to leave you with “Never fail to Vote” “Time spent with your dogs is never wasted” “He kept a good lawn until climate change burned the S*** out of it” and “Roll me up and smoke me when I’m gone.” 

Jack chose cremation. Jack’s military honors will be presented at 11:30 a.m. with visitation to follow. This will be held Saturday, October 12th from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Jack and Judy’s home. 

Dove Cremations and Funerals Southwest Chapel is assisting the family. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Doorstep, Inc., 1119 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604.

To share a memory of Jack or leave a special message for his family, visit the guestbook below.