Obituary of John R. Rickert

John Robert Rickert (formerly of Minot ND and Milwaukee WI) passed away on January 24, 2024 in Iowa City IA due to peritoneal mesothelioma. He was born in Keokuk IA on February 16, 1954 to Alfred and Doris Royal Rickert. Those left to honor his memory are beloved daughters Madeline, and twins Elena and Viviana, of Brookfield WI. He is also survived by his mother Doris, and twin sister Patty, both of Iowa City IA; dear friends John Schwartzkopf and Tom Sidebottom of Cedar Rapids IA; Jim Ebert and Nancy Garner Ebert of St. Paul MN; and former wife Julie of Brookfield. He was preceded in death by his father in 2005. 

John was a devoted stay-at-home dad for 11-1/2 years, his proudest achievement. He enjoyed taking his daughters to the Minot Public Library, the Roosevelt Park Zoo, and Oak Park. He listened to public radio all his life. He enjoyed cop shows, among his favorites, The Rookie and Chicago PD.

John was an intelligent, caring, and gentle man. Despite a passionate interest in World War II history and guns, he was a peaceful man who believed in equity and respect for all. He was avidly interested in music and the technology used to record and reproduce sound. While many knew he collected vinyl LP records (2880 at last count), they might be surprised to find out John once wrote for the Absolute Sound. The part of his career he valued most was in telecommunications at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

John and Patty attended a one-room country schoolhouse for first grade. Together with Marcella Dresden and Bonnie Barnes, they made up the class of ‘72. 

Memorials may be made to National Public Radio.  John will be cremated, his ashes shared with family and friends. He will be deeply missed.