Michael (Mike) Earl Ricketts, from Mayville, NY, passed away peacefully with family by his side, on October 5 after a courageous battle with Kidney Cancer.

Born January 20 ^th , 1949, in Westfield NY, he was the son of Joseph and Charlotte Ricketts and the younger brother of Nancy (Dick) Harner and Sally (Rufus) Hofelt. There is comfort in knowing he has been reunited in Heaven with his loving parents and sisters.

Mike lived his life a strong, motivational, courageous leader and battled his illness with that same strength and courage all while motivating family and friends to celebrate the love he shared with them.

It goes without saying Mike was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. Discovering his passion to serve his community early in life, he began as a Stock Boy/ Delivery Kid at the family store, Ricketts Market "Westfield's little big store". After his graduation from Westfield Academy and Central School, he achieved degrees from Erie Technical Institute (Erie Community College) and Buffalo State College. After graduation he returned home and accepted an opportunity to work with Vine City Dairy, as a Milk Delivery Driver until he was given an opportunity to work in Alleghany County where he began his career in probation. Two years later, he moved back to Chautauqua County and continued this career until he retired as the Director of Probation of Chautauqua County in 2006. Throughout his life, it was with pride and honor he held the volunteer positions of President of Habitat for Humanity, New York State Jaycee President, Mayville Central School Board President and countless others.

A man of great faith in God and humanity, he believed there was good in everyone. He was a planner of great adventures for family and friends from Canada's Wonderland to the Big Island of Hawaii and a giver of a great many gifts.

He will be greatly missed by his "Sweetie" of 51 years, Kathleen Poletto Ricketts. His four kids Jenell Ricketts Long, Gregg Long, Melanie Ricketts and Shawn Canfield will greatly miss his "You know what you should do" tokens of advice. And his four grandkids Evan Rudewicz, Gabriella Ricketts, Jaime Long and Giana Long will share stories of their Kapuna (including what his name means and how he got it) for many years to come.

Please join us as we share stories about life, laughter and love on Saturday October 15 ^th from 12p-3p in the restaurant of Olive's at Chautauqua Suites 215 West Lake Road, Mayville, NY 14757

Friends and family will be received Thursday October 13 ^th from 2p -4p and 6p -8p at Freay Funeral Home 139 South Erie Street, Mayville, NY 14757

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the future Mike Ricketts Leadership and Community Service Project . Donations can be made payable to Kathleen Ricketts.