Edwin D. Rickerson

Recorded Video Link: https://vimeo.com/event/6050594

Edwin D. Rickerson, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, business leader,

veteran, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, at the age of 83,

just over two months after the passing of his beloved wife, Charlotte Ann Rickerson, on April 19,

2026. After 62 years of marriage, those who knew them best believe he truly died of a broken

heart. Their love and devotion to one another was unwavering, and they are now reunited in

eternal peace.

Ed was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Edwin A. Rickerson and Laverne C. Rickerson. From an

early age, he developed the integrity, work ethic, and commitment to service that would define

his remarkable life.

He proudly served as an officer in the United States Army, where he demonstrated the

leadership and character that would continue throughout his professional career. Following his

military service, Ed became an executive with McDonald's Corporation during the 1970s and

1980s, contributing to the company's growth during a transformative period in its history.

Later, Ed accepted an opportunity to lead Simon Marketing, Inc., relocating his family to Los

Angeles, California. Through his executive leadership, strategic vision, and dedication, he

helped build Simon Marketing into a billion-dollar multinational marketing company. He

ultimately served as Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer before the company was

sold. At just 55 years old, Ed retired after an extraordinarily successful career, choosing to

devote the next chapter of his life to faith, family, and service in Scottsdale, AZ, with his wife

Charlotte.

While Ed achieved tremendous professional success, he measured his life by a different

standard. He believed that faith and family came before everything else. He led by example,

teaching his children and grandchildren through his actions rather than his words. His greatest

joy was his marriage to Charlotte, raising their family, and spending time with those he loved.

Ed and Charlotte shared a passion for exploring the world together, traveling to 86 countries

throughout their lives for both business and pleasure. Their adventures created lifelong

memories and reflected their appreciation for different cultures, people, and experiences.

A devoted Catholic, Ed remained active in his faith throughout his life. During retirement, he

gave his time volunteering with the Mayo Clinic, serving his parish, and participating as a proud

member of the Knights of Columbus. His generosity, humility, and willingness to help others

touched countless lives.

Ed is survived by his loving children: Karin L. (Mike) Merk, Edwin M. (Suzi) Rickerson, and

Kristen A. (John) Butorovich. He also leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren and 8 treasured

great-grandchildren, all of whom were a constant source of pride and joy.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, an exceptional father, an inspiring leader, and a

man of unwavering faith, integrity, and generosity. His legacy lives on not only through his

professional accomplishments but through the values he instilled in his family, the lives he

influenced, and the love he shared so freely.

Though our grief is deep, we treasure God's plan for them both, and find comfort in knowing that 

Ed is once again in the loving embrace of Charlotte, the love of his life; they are in the care of

God's gentle hands. Together they leave behind a legacy of faith, family, and palpable unconditional 

love that will stay in our hearts for generations.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23