Obituary for John Thomas Ricks
John Thomas Ricks, 89, of Pekin passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on March 30, 1935, in Peoria to George A. and Lillian Wallace Ricks.
He married Linda M. Gardner on March 5, 2009, in Peoria; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Daniel Ricks, Charles (Denene) Ricks, Vicky (Kenneth) Benedict, Tina Huggins, Danielle Martin; grandchildren, Kevin, Amy, Wendy, John, Thomas, Joseph, Rebecca, Mary, Shawn, Joey, D.J., Trevor, Chase, Ryan, Courtney, Stephanie and great-grandchildren, Hunter, Levi, Hannah, Emma, Aristotle, Evan, Riley, Johnny, Emmett, Eli, Alen, Kyndel, Aiden, Toby, Whit and Cynthia.
John was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis Millington-Ricks; daughter, Tammy Allen; daughter-in-law, Charlotte Ricks; grandson, Troy Martin; parents and sisters, Phyllis Everett, Evelyn Wood and Patricia Stroud.
He worked for Ameren, retiring in 2000. John owned and operated Richwoods Marathon Gas Station and was a volunteer for Limestone Township Fire Department.
John loved his family and his princess dog, Katie. He enjoyed fishing, camping and spending winters in Texas. In his early days he enjoyed motorcycle racing and drag racing in Havana.
Cremation has been accorded and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Pekin/Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at csmico.com
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