Lambert Ricker

Lambert H. Ricker, age 93, of Freeport, died on Monday, November 17, 2003 at the Veteran Administration Medical Center in St. Cloud.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Thursday, November 20th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport. Burial with military honors will follow in the parish cemetery .

Friends may call from 9 to 11 am Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport.

Lambert H. Ricker was born on March 3, 1910 to Joseph and Christine (Gau) Ricker in St. Anthony, Minnesota. He moved with the family to Freeport, Minnesota and was a manager of the Farmers Company Oil Station in Freeport until entering the service during World War II. As a disabled veteran he was a bar tender at the Corner Bar and Pioneer Inn in Freeport until his retirement in 1989 when he moved to Albany, Minnesota. He was admitted to the VA Hospital in St. Cloud in December of 2001.Lam lived a simple life. He didn't believe in a lavish lifestyle, basic items were all he owned. They were maintained with a perfectionist's care and pride. A deep religious conviction and a strong sense of patriotism were Lam's main attributes in life. He was proud to serve in World War II, although his injuries left him with chronic pain. It was obvious that he relied on God throughout his life. He was always hopeful, and spent his time in service to others, not only at the gas station, but also tending bar. He knew his public and had great expectations for all. Often he expressed his opinions. He spent time dedicated to his parents and siblings. His strong sense of family proved to be a paradox in his life. Love for others was shown through his private and public support of his local community and church. He was a faithful friend to those close to him.Lambert was a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Freeport, a disabled World War II Veteran, member of the VFW in Melrose and member of St. Joseph's Catholic Aid Society.

Survivors include his son, Robert Ricker of St. Michael; step-sister, Loretta Uphus of Melrose; and half-sister, Helen Cline of Oakdale.He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Pauline Helen Ricker; step-brothers and sisters, George and Alphonse Heidgerken and Beata Howatt; and half-brothers, Norbert, Urban, Joseph, Jr., Ray, and Walter Ricker.