Thursday, October 1, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a vibrant spirit and gifted musician who dedicated her life to the harmony of song and the joy of teaching.
Born to Donald and Shirley Mrozek in Ottumwa, Iowa, she grew up with a natural flair for performance, graduating from Mar Vista High School in 1963. During her youth, she was a standout athlete, excelling as both a cheerleader and a competitive roller skater.
Her passion for music led her to the University of Puget Sound (1990), where she performed with the prestigious Adelphians. This was only the beginning of a lifelong vocal legacy. An accomplished vocalist, she graced the stage in municipal musicals and served as a cornerstone of many faith communities — leading and singing in church choirs and handbell choirs across the country. Most recently, she shared her talents with the Melody Belles of Granbury, Texas.
As a dedicated educator, she shared the gift of music with students around the world. Her distinguished teaching career spanned from Washington and Nevada to the international halls of American Cooperative School of Tunis, Tunisia, leaving a global impact on generations of aspiring musicians.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her devoted husband of 48 years, James L. Ricketson. Her memory lives on through her brothers, Donny Roze and Bruce Mrozek; her children, Steven R. Ricketson, James A. Ricketson, Christopher M. Ricketson, Robert D. Ricketson, Sandra A. Caswell, Jaynee M. Kahler, Susan K. Butterfield; 15 grandchildren, plus the countless melodies she left in the hearts of those who knew her.
