Bonnie L. Ricker, age 94, of Helena, went to her heavenly home to her Lord and Master on the early morning of Sunday, July 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Cooney Healthcare and Rehabilitation.
Bonnie was born October 18th, 1930, in Sheridan, Wyoming to Hugh and Mary Magdalene Knapp.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Jack R. Ricker, her parents Hugh Knapp and Mary Magdalene Perkins, and sister-in-law Sharon Sewell.
Bonnie graduated from Carroll College with an R.N. degree in nursing in 1952. As part of her nursing career, she selflessly cared for many patients that contracted polio in the 1950’s. She went on to work for many years at Shodair Children’s Hospital helping and caring for the wonderful children of Helena and the surrounding area until she retired in 1980.
Bonnie spent her life devoted to family, her Lord and church. She served on various church committees and the church choir at the First Christen Church, crocheting and crafts, and playing the organ.
Bonnie is survived by daughter Pamela Cronen and her husband Ray; son Bradley Ricker and his wife Cheryl; son Bruce Ricker all of Helena; Thirteen grandchildren, Travis Cronen (Tony) Melissa Newlon (Chris), Jennifer Cronen, Jennifer Ricker, Tylor Ricker (Priscilla), Lillian Mitchell, Risha Ricker, Ronnie Ricker (George), Russell Ricker (Erica), RyeAnne Ricker (Josh), Colton Ricker, Jake Ricker, and CodiAnne Loomer (Nick). Seven great grandchildren; Presley Cronen, Christopher Jack Newlon, Elizabeth Ricker, Rowan Ricker, Adolin Ricker, Atlee Ricker, and Alisaie Ricker. Her sister Debbie Osowski and her brother and sister-in-law Phil and his wife Merrilyn Ricker of Eagle River, AK.
Services will be held July 26, 2025 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke & Retz Funeral Home at 11 a.m. followed by a reception and graveside service at Forestvale Cemetery, 3750 North Montana Avenue, Helena, MT.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the First Christian Church, 311 Power, Helena, MT 59601; the American Cancer Society, 550 North 31st, Ste 103, Billings MT 59101 or to a charity of choice. To send a condolence to the family or share a memory of Bonnie, please visit: https://helenafuneralhome.com/.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Saturday July 26, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
Funeral Reception
Following Funeral Service
Saturday July 26, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11 a.m.
Saturday July 26, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
Funeral Reception
Following Funeral Service
Saturday July 26, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, MT 59602
Travis Cronen says
Love and miss you grandma.
Elaine Myles says
To All the Family, my sincere sympathy and prayers.
Pam, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know your memories of your mom will live on in your heart and give you comfort. I’m so thankful for Bonnie’s faith in Jesus Christ. She’s at home with him.
Travis, I love the picture of you and your Gramma. I can see the love you both have for each other. There’s just something special about a person’s first grandchild. A special bond that’s hard to describe, but I know you will carry in your heart. Love you ❤️
Michelle Anderson says
Brad, Cheryl and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michelle Anderson and family
Kenneth Moore says
Susan and I have many precious memories of Bonnie and Jack. They were wonderful church leaders and beloved friends. We enjoyed many wonderful visits in their home.