Joseph "Gene" Ricca

April 7th, 1922 - December 31st, 2013

Joseph's Memory Wall

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Dear Mrs. Ricca and the whole extended Ricca family---South Haven has lost another icon and member of the "Greatest Generation."  I'd like to think that my folks and the Hamlins and all the good people who created our community after World War II welcomed Mr. Ricca with a grin and a hug.  Some aspect of our souls and the love we create goes on beyond the borders of Earth.

I am sorry for you loss but like yourselves can smile at memories.  Mr. Ricca was the perfect partner for Marialyce redesigning the kitchen and family room area of 900 Monroe Blvd. after the folks purchase.  I remember his patience, humor and attention to her detail.  The kitchen was cutting edge and contained one of the first microwave ovens in the area.  Mr. Ricca was a people person who applied his mechanical gifts to not only improve homes but the entire community.

For natives, South Haven is like an extended family.  Generations of kids grew up side by side and then their kids.  Such familiarity is becoming endangered.  But most of us remember.  God bless the Ricca family.

Love, PJ Canonie-Bubin

PJ Canonie-Bubin

Ricca family as I write this condolence to all of you please understand that my family is now going through the very same emotions of sadness and regret while celebrating the love and memories of our lost loved ones. I told Rick the other nigh on a Facebook message that my Sister Mary is catching a ride on the same star as Gene to heaven to be with all the past super stars who are there waiting to have a reunion party for two of the new permanent residents. Your loss is my loss because Gene was a wonderful man who I always looked up to with admiration and respect from his views on religion and sports to politics and business. Geno and my Dad were great gambling buddies at $1 per game with constant back and fourth of wins and losses and no money ever changing hands. I think this Ricca, Hamlin tradition has passed on to a much smaller scale with Joe and me whenever Boston College plays Notre Dame or Ferris in hockey. Rick, Ronnie, Joey and Barb being a classmate of your sister Mary was an honor and you would be surprised on how often her brilliant smile still comes to my mind as a friend lost way to soon. Now your Dad will come to mind when I think of her and she will come to mind when i think of your Dad. This being one of the ways that we all live on forever. May the peace, love and comfort of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you on this occasion. David & Rosalee Hamlin

David Hamlin

Although I did not personally know Joseph "Gene" Ricca, I always heard stories through his grandson, Andy, and how he was always inspired speaking to his grandfather. My favorite story that Andy learned from his grandfather and passed on to me: "Life is like a wheel with many spokes, and each spoke represents a different aspect of your life: family, friends, work, health, travel. If you focus on one "spoke" and neglect others, your wheel will become unbalanced, and you will not be as happy as possible. Always keep the spokes in your life balanced." I send my regards to the Ricca family, 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Rest in peace Joseph "Gene" Ricca

Kamil Chmielewski

To all who knew Gene. We have lost in this world a special man. I met Gene when i worked at the Radiator and Glass shop. Gene took me under his wing and saw the creative side in me. The wallpaper and drapery section was a second home for me and after 30 years of having my own decorating business I owe 90% of that motivation to Gene. I learned so much. The statement " treat a stripe like a solid" is repeated weekly and I always think of him. His coffee, if i remember correctly, 2 sugars and milk.
There will be a huge part missing in this world although Heaven will be " a shaking" when Gene sets his goal on something. God Bless and may we find comfort in knowing he is in a great spot.

Jan guigue

The Dean Buck family wishes to express our condolences to your family on your Dad's passing. I have so many fond memories of spending time at the Ricca household and always welcomed Gene's support of our sports program. Lots and lots of good times, good memories......great times. A kind smile, always positive, can't say enough. Here's hoping that the upcoming memorial for your Dad will mirror the spirit in which his life exemplified. Best wishes, thoughts and prayers coming your way. Mr. Ricca, as I called him, will be missed and more importantly, be fondly remembered. Thanks for the memories.

Dean Buck

My dear friends, my family and I offer our sympathies, prayers and love to your family. I personally have many wonderful memories of your family. Your Dad was a remarkable man, always loved his smile and warm greetings. Your MOM, to me, is always beautiful and so very special. I am so grateful that I got to see all of you this summer. Take are of your Mom and give her a hug for me. Love you all and peace be with you. With love and prayers, Helene

Helene Plachta Szostak

Dear Ricca Family,

I am so sorry for the loss of your husband/dad.  I loved Gene!  Whenever, wherever I saw him, I would hear, "Hey, young lady!" For years, I didn't think he knew my name!

How could he not know my name? I'd gone to school with Joe since forever, and St. Basil wasn't THAT big. One day I was brave enough to introduce myself to him. "Mr. Ricca, I'm Marie Mielke. I go to.." but before I could finish my sentence, he cut me off rather brusquely, "I know who your are, young lady!" Ok then, young lady it is; and has been ever since!

Over the years, when Gene and I ran into each other we had lots of fun, always a hug,  a joke, and maybe a sarcastic remark or two! I always walked away from him with a smile on my face. I will miss that man!

Sadly, I will not be able to attend Gene's Mass on Saturday.  I am having surgery Thursday and will be home following doctor's orders. Know that you and Gene will be in my thoughts and prayers. Our world had lost a great guy!

Marie Mielke

Our thoughts are with all of the Riccas as you both mourn Gene's passing, and celebrate his legacy. I have heard many stories over the years and know that he was welcomed Home with great joy by many who have gone before him. We are blessed to live in a small town and to have known the great people who built our community based on hard work and integrity. These values, taught so well by Gene and Kathy together, live on in Rick, Ron, Barb and Joe, and will be carried forward in future generations. Godspeed.

Mary and Terry Hamlin

Mrs. Ricca, Barb, Joe, Ron, Rick and the entire Ricca family,

South Haven lost another one of its pillars of the community in Gene O! What a great example he set for all that knew him. His handwork, love and dedication to his Church and Community is something we should all learn from. His time and service to all that he was involved, his countless hours spent for the betterment of all the youth in our town is something this modern world we live in is missing and will never be forgotten! ! His friendship with my parents and the rest of our old neighborhood will live in my heart always. For me he was always there with his wise advice and direction on many projects I worked on with him. His great smile and that twinkle he had in his eyes could brighten up a room. He always had time and would go out of his way to talk with you. Everytime I go in his old store I feel like I smell a pipe and see him sitting in the back at his desk! I don’t think many people know but he gave my dad his nickname Ward O many years ago! Our parents were some of the few left of the "Greatest Generation" Our prayers; thoughts and love are with all of you for the loss of your wonderful Husband and Father. Take comfort in knowing he is at peace! If you need anything let us know.

Charlie O. & Family

Charlie O.,Cheryl, Justin & Tyler Hamlin

Mr. Ricca was a wonderful human being. Full of love for family, friends, his faith and all sorts of sports. He was like a part time father to me..and tons more ! Always a kind word or encouragement. He knew how to get us all, believing in ourselves, and 'playing over our heads'. My sister is correct, Gene was an icon. Dennis Snyder's comment was perfect.."he was everywhere"...my heart goes out to my Ricca friends...love you all, and let's celebrate a great man's life on Saturday. The grieving will be short lived, compared to the myriad of memories we all have.
Tony Canonie Jr

Joseph "Gene" Ricca

Joseph's Memory Wall

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