William R. Rickel

William Roy “Bill” Rickel, 95, of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully, Friday, September 28, 2018 at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville.  William was born January 22, 1923 in Benton Harbor to Clifford and Elsie (Reimer) Rickel.  He graduated from Benton Harbor High School Class of 1941.  Bill then proudly served his country in the United States Navy.  Following his service to his county, Bill gained employment with Whirlpool Corp., retiring after 42 years as a product engineer.  On July 1, 1956, Bill married the love of his life, Dolores Migala.  Bill loved the outdoors, especially deer hunting season, teaching Hunter Safety Courses, and camping and boating with his family.  Bill’s wishes were to be cremated and there will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date. Memorial Contributions can be made to the Hanson Hospice Center or Caring Circle Hospice.   Bill will lovingly be remembered by his children Kathy (Steve) Hammond, Robert (Tashai) Lughai, daughter-in-law Patti Rickel, his grandsons Bryan (Andrea) Hammond, Adam and Kyle Hammond, Zach and Alex Rickel, great-granddaughter Jade with another great-granddaughter on the way; his sisters-in-law Marian Migala, Karen (Jerry) Gunning, and Diane (Joe) Petlick, and brother-in-law Bill Migala as well as numerous nieces and nephews and step family.  He will also be greatly missed by his faithful canine companion Cooper.   Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years Dolores, his son Jim, his parents Clifford and Elsie,  brother Art Rickel and brother-in-law Gil Migala.