HAMPDEN – Earland W. Rickards, 76, passed away peacefully Aug. 3, 2013, at his home in Hampden, surrounded by his loving family. Earland was born Dec. 28, 1936, in Madison, to Wilbur A. and Edith (Keene) Rickards.
Earland worked for many years as a self employed plumber. His prior work was as a mechanic for International harvester and Ryder Truck in Connecticut. Christ was particularly important to Earland, devoting his life to Christ and as a Gideon, was working for Christ in several area churches. Earland was a beloved community member and friend. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend.
Earland is survived by his daughters, Robin Scanlon and husband, Lance, of Hampden and Tanya Burns and husband, Gerry Jr., of Virginia; his sister, Dorothy Rich of Madison; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews and cousins. Earland was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Frances Rickards; and a son, David Rickards.
A memorial service celebrating Earland’s life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, August 10, at Hermon Baptist Church, Route 2, Hermon, with the Pastors Garnett Chute and Bill Cohn officiating. Family and friends are invited to visit from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Interment will be held 2 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery, Park Street, Madison. At the conclusion of the interment, all are invited to join the family for light refreshments and a continued time of remembrance at the Abnaki Sno-Riders, Madison. Arrangements entrusted to Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden.
Earland W. Rickards
