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Kenneth “Kenny” Don Ricketts, 64,Trenton, Missouri passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Kenny was born on December 14, 1961, to Don and Darlie Ann Ricketts. On February 12, 1983, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Tonna White, sharing over 43 years together.
Kenny was an avid woodworker who found joy in creating with his hands. He spent countless hours in his shop hand-turning more than 100 wooden bowls and crafting beautiful boxes. He also enjoyed mowing his yard, tinkering on projects, and spending time reading.
While he had many hobbies, his favorite role was being “Poppy” to his grandsons. Whether sitting at the edge of the pond casting a line for them to reel in, or pulling out power tools and scrap wood so the boys could drill, build, or take things apart just to see how they worked, those moments brought him the greatest joy.
Kenny’s greatest legacy is his family. He believed deeply in the importance of gathering together, often reminding them that supper at the table mattered. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, it was with wisdom, quiet strength, and meaningful life lessons.
He dedicated over 35 years of his career to Trenton Municipal Utilities, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment.
Kenny is survived by his wife, Tonna Ricketts of the home; his son, Carl Ricketts and wife Jamie of Trenton; his daughter, Cara McClellan and husband Kipp of Chula; his grandsons, Korbyn, Krede, and Koen McClellan, and Braxton Smith; his mother, Darlie Ann Ricketts; his mother-in-law, Sherril Belvel; his brother, Steve Ricketts and wife Marilyn; his sister, Leigh Ann McCulloch and husband Ray; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Don Ricketts; his grandson, Kadyn McClellan; his brother, Billy Bob Ricketts; his fathers-in-law, Larry White and Bernell Belvel; and his sister-in-law, Pam White.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Kadyn McClellan Memorial.
Kenny will be remembered for his quiet presence, his steady hands, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the things he built, and the memories shared around the table.
Memorial services will be held Friday, May 8, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Resthaven Mortuary, Trenton, Missouri. Burial of cremains will be in Stucker Cemetery south of Laredo, Missouri.
Family visitation will be held Thursday, May 7, 2026 from 5:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the mortuary.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kenneth (Kenny) Don Ricketts, please visit our floral store.