Marie V. Rickert

Marie V. Rickert, 89, formerly of Frenchtown and Cole Drive, Meadville and a resident of Wesbury United Methodist Community since 1997, died there Friday, April 2, 1999, following a period of declining health.

She was born in East Mead Township, April 17, 1909, a daughter of the late Arthur A. and Frances V. (DuCray) LeComte.  She married Gilbert A. Rickert November 25, 1937 and he preceded her in death December 8, 1951.

Widowed with two young children and elderly parents, she operated Rickert's Grocery in Frenchtown from 1951 to her retirement in 1983.  Prior to her husband's death she had assisted him in the operation of the store since its establishment in 1927.  She enjoyed her 90 years to the fullest.  She was always willing to help others.  She had a very deep faith and a great love for St. Hippolyte Roman Catholic Church, where she was a member.  She treasured the time she spent with her granddaughters.  She had studied dressmaking and was an accomplished seamstress and after her retirement she continued to sew.  She also especially enjoyed her flowers and spending time outside.  She was a former member of St. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, Kiser Hill Grange and Ladies Aid of St. Hippolytes.  She was a member of St. Hippolyte Roman Catholic Church and its Legion of Mary and Alter and Rosary Society.  She also was a founding member of the East Mead Township Fire Department Aux.

Survivors include a son, Robert Rickert (Bonnie) of Meadville; a daughter, Rosalie McCracken (John) of Meadville; a sister, Dorothy V. Connor (John) of Meadville; two granddaughters, Shelly M. Smith and Jill M. Rickert and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Elmer A. LeComte, Murray A. LeComte and Joseph O. Richard.

Services were held at Waid Funeral Home.

Interment was in St. Hippolyte Cemetery.