Traverse City, Michigan - Ricky Stricker, 77, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully after a stroke at Munson Hospice House on June 19, 2026, with family by her side.

Ricky was born on August 26, 1948 in Wyandotte to the late Harold Charles and Doris L. (Dingman) Fritz.

She met the love of her life, Jerry Lee Stricker at the Park Place Motor Inn now known as the Park Place Inn. They were wed on April 15, 1967, in Flat Rock and made their home in Traverse City.

In addition to being dedicated and highly respected legal secretary for more than 26 years before retiring in 2014, Ricky was also a published author and keeper of the family genealogy. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and in her free time enjoyed reading, crocheting, knitting and quilting, and working jigsaw puzzles with her family. She also loved the great outdoors and liked to camp and canoe. She was proud to live on the century-old Stricker Family Farm, where she displayed her collection of antiques and enjoyed watching the birds at her many feeders. Most of all, she enjoyed sharing stories and a cold beer with family and friends, all of whom she considered family.

Ricky was preceded in death by her parents; sister Donna Farmer; and brothers William and Thomas.

Ricky is survived by her husband of 59 years, Jerry; their sons Jerry 2 (Suzanne), Mark (Hannah); Adam (Angela); grandchildren Madison, Amanda, Nicole, Dirk, and Dylan; brother Charles (Sandra) Fritz and sister-in-law Patricia Fritz, and many nieces, nephews and extended family who loved her dearly.

A memorial service will be held on July 18, 2026 at 11 am, with visitation beginning one hour prior at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

In accordance with her wishes all are invited to stay for a pizza party following the services. Interment will be held at a later date at Rose Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in her honor may be directed to a charity of one's choice.