October 14, 2024, Eileen Rickettson of Holland, NY loving wife, mother and grandmother passed away at the age of 96.

Eileen was born May 8, 1928, in Buffalo, NY to Henry and Loretta (Hiebler) Hickel and graduated from St Mary’s High School, Lancaster NY. On June 19,1948 she married the late John Rickettson and through their 72-year marriage they raised six children, 13 grandchildren,17 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter who were the joys of her life. 

Eileen spent her years caring for her husband, their home and raising her children, extending her love and sacrifice to her grandchildren through the last days of her life. Her home was always filled with love, flowers and a meal that was meant to be shared with all who showed up to her table. Eileen took great pride in her flower and vegetable gardens, teaching the next generations how to care and preserve them. She never left home without her camera and never let you leave her home without a picture. She treasured every memory with a photo, so they would never be forgotten. Eileen was a devoted member of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church where she served on the Altar & Rosary Society for many years. She was also a member of the Holland Historical Society. 

Preceded in death by husband, John Rickettson, parents and brother Donald (Betty) Hickel. She is survived by six children, Joy (late Theodore, Robert White) Bucknam, Dennis (Mary Alice “Sam”), Karen (Glenn) Kline, Ronald (Roni), Timothy (Marcia) and Douglas (Laura) Rickettson. Loved by thirteen grandchildren, Christopher (Nikki Glass) Kline, Jason (Michelle) Kline, Lindsey (Andy) Fraas, Tyler (Miranda Wagner) Rickettson, Cory (Adrienne) Rickettson, Courtney (Mark) Craig, Steven (Anna) Rickettson, Megan (Nick Mathis) Matthews, Thomas (Courtney) Rickettson, Edward (Katelyn) Rickettson, Jenna Rickettson, Bradley (Kaitie Vogel) Rickettson and Sarah Rickettson. Blessed by seventeen great-grandchildren, Chelsea (Anthony Nappa), Christopher Jr., Chase & Chandler Kline, Myla, Kaylin, Kierra & Clayton Kline, Everett Rickettson, Walter Rickettson, Maverick & Macoy Craig, Rachel, John, Michael & Adriana Rickettson, Lila Rickettson and one great-great granddaughter, Ava Nappa. Also survived by sister, Evelyn (late Richard) Frank, sister-in-law, Betty (late Donald) Hickel, and several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation Sunday, October 20, 2-7 PM at Comfort Funeral Home, Inc. 6469 Olean Road., South Wales.

Mass of Christian Burial Monday October 21, 11 AM at St. Joseph's R.C. Church, 46 N. Main St., Holland. 

Donations may be sent to Holland Historical Society – PO Box 95 Holland, NY 14080.