Bio, 2014: Larry Ricker
After high school, Larry R. Ricker graduated from Oklahoma State University in January of 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics. While in college, he joined the brotherhood of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, and still serves the local Gamma Chi chapter. Also during his time at OSU, he met and married Dee Ann (Boyd) Ricker, and they will be celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary in August of 2014.After his college graduation, Larry served with the 45th division of the National Guard in Oklahoma. He then worked for the Stillwater Fire Department from 1970 to 1974. During this time, the Ricker’s were blessed with two children. Brian R. Ricker was born February 13, 1971 and Betsey D. (Ricker) Weaver was born October 8, 1974. After his stint with the fire department, Larry became owner and operator of Ricker Auto Supply, which he ran until 1985. Then, upon selling the auto supply, the family moved to Sarasota, Florida where he owned a full service Texaco gas station. In 1989, he sold the gas station and returned home to Stillwater. For the past 25 years, he has continued his work in the automotive industry in Stillwater. He has served as parts manager for Ron Shirley motors, parts manager for Wilson Chevrolet, and currently fills many roles at the Stillwater NAPA store.
Larry enjoys spending some of his spare time as a volunteer. During his son’s time in Boy Scouts, he was a Webelo leader and also assisted Brian in managing his Eagle Scout Project. He has also served Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity for over 40 years. He has performed as an advisor in many roles, and currently is in his 25th year as treasurer for the House Corporation. He enjoys working with these men and it keeps him young! In 2007 he was honored with the Gamma Chi Chapter Hall of Fame award for all his years of invaluable service. In 1996, Larry and Dee were also recognized as OSU Alpha Delta Pi Parents of the Year for their dedication and service to the sorority their daughter Betsey belonged to.
Larry’s passion lies in motor sports. Over the years, he has watched countless races, both live and televised, and participated in the sport in many ways. He has owned and operated his own racing teams, including building and maintaining his fleet of cars. He has been to and participated in events all over the United States including, Florida, Texas, Kansas, and of course Oklahoma.
Larry has always called Stillwater home and is enjoying his life here. In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Ricker’s son Brian died suddenly in 2011 at the age of 40. Larry’s 5 grandchildren have kept him busy over the last decade or so. Kayleigh Ricker (7) resides in Lewisville, Texas which has become a favorite travel destination for him as he takes trips to see her. His other 4 grandchildren, Emma and Lara Horinek (12) & Jake (7) and Finn (2) Weaver, also live in Stillwater and allow him countless opportunities to teach them all the things a grandpa should teach the future generation!
©2009 Stillwater High School Class of 1964