Derald Lee Rickard

Dec. 21, 1923 - Aug. 11, 2009

MAX -- Derald Lee Rickard, of Max, died Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at Sarah Ann Hester Memorial Home in Benkelman, at the age of 85.

He was born Dec. 21, 1923, on his family's farm south of Max, to James Otis and Irma Jean (Mills) Rickard and attended school near his home. He graduated from Max Rural High School in 1941, and attended McCook Junior College in McCook before returning to the family farm.

Derald devoted his life to agriculture. He loved farming the rich soil and tending to his livestock. It was a way of life he embraced each and every day.

On Sept. 14, 1952, he was united in marriage to Phyllis J. Adamson, and they resided on their farm south of Max. Derald would tend to his farm, and Phyllis would teach school in Max and Benkelman.

After retirement, Derald and Phyllis traveled extensively, taking several tours of Europe, Hawaii and parts of Africa.

Derald was a member of the Robert Burns Lodge No. 173 A.F. & A.M., where he maintained his membership for more than 50 years, and was a past member of the Order of Eastern Star.

After the passing of his wife in 2007, Derald continued making his home on the farm until June of 2009, when his failing health called for his move to the Hester Home.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Irma Jean Rickard; his wife, Phyllis; brothers-in-law, Lawrence Redfield and Bob Dailey; and one nephew, Kurt Dailey.

Survivors include his sisters, Marjorie Redfield of Stratton and Dorothy Whaley and husband, Dean of Trenton; nieces, Kristi Neiman and husband, John of Wallace and Jana Lee Dailey of Creston, Iowa; nephews, Larry Redfield and wife, Tamara of Lincoln and Craig Redfield of Champion; and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives, friends and neighbors.

Derald is also survived by his dog, Skipper, who was a true, faithful and constant companion.

Mr. Rickard will lie in state Friday, Aug. 14, 2009, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (MDT) at Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.

Funeral services will be Saturday, Aug. 15, 2009, at 10 a.m. (MDT) in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Brian Fong officiating. After a Masonic committal service, interment will follow at the Benkelman Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his name.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.