Kenneth K. "Kenny" Ricks

Kenneth “Kenny” K. Ricks, 86, of Rootstown, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Select Specialty Hospital in Akron, Ohio, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on April 24, 1939, in Akron, Ohio, Kenny was the son of the late Larimore and Anna Irene (Hanlon) Ricks. A proud graduate of Ohio University, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering while competing on both the football and wrestling teams. A lifelong resident of Rootstown, Kenny dedicated twenty-nine years of service to the Portage County Sanitation Department before retiring. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed boating, camping, fishing trips, and farming. Kenny also enjoyed time spent with friends watching Monday Night Football at ‘The Barn’. He also had a heart for his community — mentoring Rootstown youth and supporting his children throughout their many activities. Kenny logged countless miles cheering on his son’s sports teams and his daughter’s horse shows. In his later years, he found great joy in spending time with his family, being entertained by his beloved grandson, and meeting friends for Friday morning “round table” gatherings at Cracker Barrel. Kenny is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Roberta (Vaughn) Ricks, whom he married on September 27, 1969; his children, Todd Ricks and Jodie Ricks; and his grandson, Kenny Miller. He also leaves behind his siblings, Mary Ann Greer (daughter Cindi McClain and great-niece Rachael Printz) and Jerry (Patty) Ricks (with children Kevin Ricks, Kim (Ricks) Evans and Megan (Ricks) Evenary and seven great-nieces and nephews), along with a close extended family including Mark Vaughn, Deanna (Jim) Hartman, Shellie Hamrick, Robert Blank, great-nieces Isabella and Sophia Hartman, and great-nephew Owen Hamrick. Kenny will also be deeply missed by a long list of friends who were truly like family to him. In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial calling hours will be 2pm to time of a 5 PM memorial service Saturday January 24, 2026, to celebrate his life at the Shorts Spicer Crislip Funeral Homes Ravenna Chapel. Please visit www.sscfuneralhomes.com to offer a condolence, share a memory of light a candle.