Reta L. Ricker

Reta L. (Paul) Ricker, 69, of Caribou passed away September 28, 2025 following an all-too-short, though extremely courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family and in the care of the wonderful staff at the House of Comfort in Presque Isle. She was born April 2, 1956 in Southington, Connecticut, daughter of George and Captola (Kelley) Paul and grew up in Caribou. On May 4, 1974 she married Gregory C. Ricker, and together they shared 51 years of marriage. 

Reta was a true people-person, making friends wherever she went. She could be talking to the poorest person in town or a member of the richest family among us and one would never know the difference; she treated everyone the same and had a way about her that put people at ease and just drew them closer. Her quick wit, gregarious smile, and contagious laugh made her truly unforgettable. Friends from her years in the working world still tell stories of her hi-jinks and how she made getting through the work day just a little bit more fun. Her character, generosity, and helpful nature made her a staple during her years working at the MPG Shopping Center in Presque Isle. She was the face of the store, and customers and co-workers alike came to know her as a trusted friend; everyone knew her and loved her and some would go in just to see her or would patiently wait for her to be available so she could wait on them. Reta was the kind of person that would withdraw her last dollar from the bank because she knew someone who needed it more than she. 

Family trips in the summertime often consisted of cooking out at Baxter State Park or Portage Lake, and family birthdays always meant spending time together, punctuated by the perfect gift—and the person whose special day it was felt like the richest person on the planet. Reta sincerely valued the simple things in life and enjoyed camping in Bar Harbor, Sunday drives, and trips to the Tasty Food in Van Buren with husband Greg. The two were inseparable, and that was never more evident than during Reta’s cancer battle, as Greg proved to be a crucial caregiver and champion for his best friend. 

Daughter Megan and Reta were infamous partners in crime, and the two shared many memorable adventures traveling to grandkids’ sporting events, shopping, having Tim Horton’s or Pizza Hut dates, and calling and texting each other several times each day. They were incomparable besties, peas in a pod, two of a kind, ride or dies.Reta loved her family beyond measure, something she made especially clear through her unselfish devotion to her mother. The two spent time together nearly every day during Cappy’s final few years. Not only were the two fun-loving women known for leaving people in stitches, they were two of the most fun and loving people you could ever meet.

Reta is survived by her loving husband Greg; son Sam Ricker and wife Debi; daughter Megan Shea and husband Mark; grandchildren George and Jake Ricker, as well as Brady and Emerson Miller; brother Greg Paul and wife Birdena; sister Sharon Knight and husband Larry; sister Sandra and husband Randy; sister Kathy; sister Dena; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life, along with a luncheon, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 8 at the Northeastland Hotel Ballroom, 436 Main Street, Presque Isle. The family—including Reta—would especially like to thank the entire staff of the Oncology Department at Cary Medical Center for their compassionate care and endless encouragement while she was in their very capable hands. For those who wish, contributions may be made in Reta’s memory to the Elevated Campaign at Sarah’s House in Brewer: 207-989-1683 or www.sarahshouseofmaine.org/donate