Thomas Lee Ricketts

Thomas Lee Ricketts, 81, of Sandpoint, ID died Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at his home.

He was born on February 17, 1944 in Aurora, IL to Kenneth and Gladys Ricketts and grew up farming in Oswego, IL. He attended Aurora College where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in education.Tom married the love of his life, Eileen Ferguson, in 1972. He taught at Harrison Street Elementary School in Geneva, IL for 32 years.

Tom was an active member of his church in Illinois, serving as a deacon, singing in the choir, and serving in various other ways. He loved Jesus and faithfully modeled following Christ to his children and family. He was an avid reader, tinkerer, and gardener. He loved working with his hands, fixing things, and finding a use for so many things other people may have thrown away!

Tom is survived by his wife Eileen; his daughters Jessica Allen (Boyce), Hannah Choi (Tiger), Emma Shutts (Charlie), and Tobi Henschel (Paul); 17 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren; sister Mary Unruh; and 12 nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Charlie, two older sisters, Lila and Carol, grandson Jeremiah, and nephew Kevin.

A celebration of life service will be held for Tom at 1 PM on Wednesday, October 1 at Northside Christian Fellowship in Sandpoint, ID. In lieu of flowers, please contact the family for how you could bless them during this time.