•Rickman, Will Walton, died October 2, 2025 at age 89. He was born June 14, 1936 in Maryville, Missouri. Will was predeceased by his parents, Clement Walton and Genevieve Todd Rickman; stepmother, Joan Rickman; an infant brother, Gene Rickman; brother, Dr. Jon Rickman; sister, Genevieve Mitchell; beloved son, Daniel Rickman, and cherished granddaughter, Trystan Sylvester. Will is survived by his cherished wife and best friend of 68 years, Carolyn Yvonne Rickman; his children, Will Rickman Jr. (Kathi) and Julie Rickman; his grandchildren, Kristina Payne (Jathan), Amy Rickman, Victoria Gotham (Jonathan), and Kourtney Zelazny (Joseph); his nine great grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Donna Rickman. He retired from Eastman Kodak Company in 1991 with 35 years of service. He served in many capacities in Grace United Methodist Church and for many years in Hilton United Methodist Church. Will had joined the National Guard (Missouri from 1954–1957 and later in New York from 1957–1960) while still in school and continued in the Army Reserves for a total of eight years. In September 1965, the family moved to their newly built home on 10 acres in Parma. Will’s farming background served the family well as they built a stable for the horses that would be the first of many animals for the entire family to enjoy. Caring for the animals taught responsibility and the necessity for hard work to keep everything cared for. Will’s dedication to children was exemplified in his work with the YMCA Indian Guide and Adventure Guide Programs with his sons. In the mid-70’s he served as the National Chief of the only national Indian Guide Convention to be held in Rochester. In 1997 Will and Carolyn participated in a Walk to Emmaus. Their faith in the value of the Walk to Emmaus to impact the spiritual growth of individuals prompted them to sponsor 17 people and to serve on the Western New York Walk to Emmaus Board of Directors for a total of 7 1/2 years.
Will’s Funeral Service was held Friday, October 10, at the Hilton United Methodist Church, Hilton, followed by interment in Parma Union Cemetery. Donations can be made in memory of Will to the Hilton United Methodist Church, 21 West Avenue, Hilton, NY 14468 or National Park Foundation, 1500 K Street NW, Suite 700, Washington, D.C 20005. Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Hilton.
