Philip William Ricker, businessman, Catholic deacon
Philip "Phil” William Ricker, 79, of Millsboro, passed away Friday, Dec. 23, 2022.
Phil was born March 10, 1943, in Takoma Park, Md., to the late Thomas and Louise Blake Ricker.
Phil met the love of his life, Nona G. Dove, on a blind date. They would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary Jan. 15. Nona and Phil settled down in College Park, Md., and together raised three exceptional and loving children. Phil was a lifetime entrepreneur and successful businessman. Through the many business ventures Phil had in his life, his passion came from owning and operating the Maryland News Center in Hyattsville, Md. The Maryland News Center, now called Ricker’s Beer and Wine, was created by Phil’s father, Tom, in 1952, and later purchased by Phil. This family business has spanned three generations of Rickers, now owned and operated by his son James and nephew Benjamin.
Phil’s life was full of laughter and love. Everyone who knew Phil loved his kindhearted and charitable spirit. He took pride in helping others, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying good food and great people. Phil also loved playing tennis and golf, and always loved being the center of conversation. His final days were truly memorable and surrounded by everyone he loved. Family and friends gathered before Christmas to share memories and pictures from a wonderful life together. Phil was surrounded by funny jokes, excellent food and his nine grandchildren.
Phil was a Catholic Deacon in the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. He went on to assist churches in Maryland, Florida, Washington, D.C., and Delaware. Phil and Nona blissfully retired by the beaches of Delaware, conveniently located right next to one of Phil’s favorite golf courses. His work ethic never stopped. Upon retiring, Phil immediately jumped into working at the golf pro shop and spending time golfing with his new friends.
Loved by all who knew him, Phil will be deeply missed.
Phil was preceded in death by his daughter, Christina Marie Campitelli, who lost her life to a battle with cancer March 8, 2022, and his parents, Thomas and Louise Blake Ricker. Phil is survived by his wife, Nona Ricker; his sons, Philip William Ricker Jr. and wife Jacquelynn, James Ricker and his wife Amy; son-in-law, Anthony Campitelli; and his grandchildren: Wilson, Bennett, Miller, Gwenyth, Luke, and Grant Ricker, and Anthony, Leonardo and Caroline Campitelli.
A mass of Christian Burial will take place at noon, Thursday, Jan. 12, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach, where friends may call beginning at 10 a.m.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Visit Phil’s Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
