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Friday, July 2, 2010

Pro softball player Jeanne Ricca dies at 82

E. Jean "Jeanne" Ricca
1928 - 2010

E. Jeanne Ricca, 82 passed away June 29, 2010 in Payson, Ariz.  She was born April 25, 1928 in Fitzgerald, Ga. to George C. "Joe" Ricca and Vergie Ricca.

Jeanne is preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Mary C. Ricca. She is survived by her life partner, L. Jean Bonham, Ray (Michele) Bonham, Sr., Sharon Kay (Gary) Hubbs Sr., R.P. Bonham Jr., and family, Ryan Bonham and family, Gary Hubbs Jr., and family, Kara (Tom) Russo and family, cousin Bruce Ricca and family, and numerous cousins.

Jeanne moved to Grand Canyon, Ariz. as a young girl. Her family moved to Kingman, Ariz. when she was in her teens. After graduating from High School in Kingman, she graduated from Arizona State College (now A.S.U.) With a degree in Physical Education. 

During these years Jeanne enjoyed being a part of the Golddigger’s Women’s softball team, coached by her father. She was also a team member of the PBSW Rambler’s softball team. An injury stopped her playing career.

Her first teaching position came in 1953 at Kingman Elementary School. In 1956 she began teaching elementary P.E. for Phoenix School District #1 (Edison and Garfield Schools). During her teaching tenure she also co-owned and operated BonRic’s Pet Palace with her life partner, L. Jean Bonham.

Jeanne retired from teaching in 1984. She continued working at the Pet Palace until 1992 when she and Jean Bonham moved to Payson. Jeanne enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and bird watching. She had a love and compassion for all animals.

She was a member of Order of Eastern Star and Daughters of Mohave County Pioneers.

Services will be held 11 a.m. on July 10 at Messinger Payson Funeral Home, 302 W. Aero Dr, Payson. Reception to follow at Masonic Lodge #70, Rancho Dr, Payson, AZ. The family suggests contributions to Mohave Co. Historical Society, 400 W. Beale St., Kingman, Ariz 86401, in memory of Jean Ricca. Or to any humane society or second chance shelter of your choice.

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