William "GW" George Rickel, age 81, of Bergman, passed away Wednesday August 21, 2024 at Hospice of the Hills Hospice House in Harrison surrounded by his family.

The son of Irvin and Inez (Devore) Rickel was born in Harrison on April 14, 1943. GW was a US Navy Veteran, serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk.  After he was honorably discharged, he married the love of his life, Colleen Flatt, on November 8, 1963. When they first met, it was love at first sight and they have been deeply in love since they met.

GW worked several years as a carpenter, building two of the homes that his family lived in, as well as building oak furniture.  He retired from Union Pacific Railroad after working as a Railroad Conductor for over 30 years.

He was a former Mayor of Bergman and City Alderman, serving several terms in each position. GW was also a member of Bergman United Methodist Church.

GW enjoyed working in his shop, attending auctions, and grocery shopping. He loved mowing his lawn and could be found multiple days of the week on his lawnmower.  He enjoyed long days drinking coffee at Bergman 1-Stop, visiting for hours with his friends. He was an amazing storyteller, and he was very funny. Everyone loved him because he loved to talk.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  His grandchildren were the light of his life. GW took care of his family and was always there for them. He was loved by all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Russell Devore; a sister, Brenda Hopper; brothers-in-law, Billy Flatt, David Gibson, Tom Wyckoff, James Flatt, Junior Daniels, and Glenn Campbell; a sister-in-law, Wanzell Campbell; and his lifelong best friend, James Rogers.

GW is survived by his wife of 60 years, Colleen Rickel; two sons, Randy Rickel and Jason Rickel (Jessica); four sisters, Martha Leach (Lawrence), Ruth Ann Gibson, Joy Flatt, and Bonnie Nelson; two granddaughters, Lyla Rickel and Elora Rickel; sisters-in-law, Gaynell Daniels and Donnie Flatt; brother-in-law, Carl Hopper; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and many dear friends.

Funeral service will be at 10 AM, Monday, August 26 (2024) at Coffman Funeral Home in Harrison. Burial with military honors will follow at York Cemetery in Bergman.

Visitation will be Sunday, August 25 from 2 PM to 4 PM at Coffman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be his nephews. Honorary pallbearers are his special friends, George Montgomery and Steve Brannon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude's or Camp Jack.

Arrangements under the direction of Coffman Funeral Home. On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com.