Robert Rickel, 96

In memoriam of Robert Henry Rickel.

Robert Henry Rickel was born April 15, 1929, to Iven and Mabel (Bennett) Rickel in Spokane, Wash. He grew up on the farm and lived all his life in Idaho. He entered the Army in 1951 and served for two years. He returned to the farm (The Rickel Ranch in Athol, Idaho), where he farmed his whole life. He was united in marriage to Verla Bras, and this union was blessed with three sons, Bob, Ken and Randy. Following this marriage, he married Suzanne (Bledsoe) Rickel and joined her children, Wayne, Gwynn, Cynthia and Debbie to the family. 

Robert was active on many boards in his community, which included: the Lakeland School Board, Board of KEC, Idaho Representative to the National Board of NREA, President of ICUA, Rural Light Board, Board of NW Public Power, Nationwide Insurance and Wausau Insurance boards. He led a youth organization for KEC for several years and enjoyed seeing young people succeed at the national level; some have returned to be involved in the coop. From the beginning, Robert was very involved in the Children’s Village.

He enjoyed fishing, travelling, raising and caring for horses, and his life's work on the farm.  

He is lovingly remembered by his three sons, Robert Rickel, Kenneth (and Cathy) Rickel and Randall Rickel; stepchildren, Wayne Wakefield, Gwynn Barnes, Cynthia Beyer and Debbie Donaldson; nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; niece, Janet Powell, other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Suzanne; brother Iven Rickel Jr.; and a granddaughter, Lindsay Rickel.  

Funeral service is Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at Yates Hayden Chapel at 373 E. Hayden Avenue. Visitation is one hour prior to the service, all at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to The Children's Village or Hospice of North Idaho.  

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.