The family of Arthur Glenn Ricketts have invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be with them as they lay their hero to rest. We are honored to be able to attend.
Arthur Glenn Ricketts, lovingly known as “Art,” passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 94.
Art was born on December 18, 1931, to Harry Ricketts Sr. and Addie Ricketts in Genoa, Nebraska. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Harry Ricketts Jr.
A proud patriot, Art enlisted in the United States Air Force on January 12, 1951. He served honorably and was discharged on July 11, 1953, with the rank of Technical Sergeant. His time in service reflected the dedication and strength of character he carried throughout his life.
On June 10, 1975, Art married the love of his life, Linda Ricketts. Together they shared nearly 51 wonderful years of marriage, building a life full of love, adventure, and partnership.
Art was a man of many talents and passions. He became a licensed electrical contractor and successful industrial property owner. Outside of work, he embraced life fully. He was a licensed pilot who owned his own plane and continued flying until the age of 70. He had a deep love for power boats and proudly built many himself over the years. Art also enjoyed ranching and horseback riding, earning the title of team penning champion twice. One of his most unique and cherished accomplishments was participating in the Rose Bowl Parade alongside Linda, where they drove a miniature stagecoach he built by hand. His wide range of hobbies reflected his creativity, determination, and love for life.
Art is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Ricketts; his children, Glenn Ricketts, Rhonda Ricketts, Franklin Ricketts, Dennis Ricketts, and “DJ” Ricketts; nine grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Bear Valley Church, 26180 Plateau Way, Tehachapi, California. A reception will follow the service.
A graveside service with military honors will take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 9:15 a.m. at Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 East Bear Mountain Boulevard, Arvin, California.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this military veteran. For those interested, and all PGR members are welcome, we will be accompanying the hero and his family from the mortuary to the cemetery. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
Timetable for Monday, 13 April 2026:
1145 - Stage at Wood Family Funeral Service, 321 W F St, Tehachapi, CA 93561,
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xNxPSLx6eq7Ffc2F71150 - Mission Briefing
1200 - Flag Line as the hero is moved from the facility to the coach and KSU to Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin, CA 93203,
https://maps.app.goo.gl/2bc6VGDmjhTf3cbB61230 - est. Arrival at Bakersfield National Cemetery
1300 - Military Honors and final services.
Ride Captain
Jim "Pops" Davis
US Army 1964-1970
Vietnam 1966-1970, Army Ranger snipper
661-221-3120
Jdavisabajo514@yahoo.com
You do not have to be a veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the Ride Captain (RC). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and respect for our heroes. No talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Observe the 15 MPH speed limit. Remember, cemeteries are hallowed ground. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we are honoring.
