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Donna Mae Ricker (Marzolf), 85, born March 31, 1937, in South Gate, California, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on the evening of Friday, Aug. 19, at her home in Tehachapi, California. Donna was a longtime resident of Tehachapi, since 1973. She was preceded in death by her parents, Zado and Elwood Marzolf, and her daughter-in-law, Diana Ricker. Donna is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 66 years, Mike Ricker, her three sons and daughters-in-law, Mike (Bonnie) Ricker, Rick (Judie) Ricker and Mark Ricker. Her sisters, Pat (Dave) Griffin and Bonnie (Richard) Morris, her brother Steve (Kathy) Marzolf, her 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and numerous extended family members.

Donna leaves behind the strong roots of the family she and Mike built together. She worked both hard outside of the home at California Republic Bank and dedicated everything she had to her family. We know she's in heaven because it took an angel to raise three rowdy boys. She was like a second mom to many of the boys' friends and other members of the community. She was the president of her sorority Beta Sigma Phi where she volunteered her time to raise money for various things in the community including Railroad Park. She spent years sewing uniforms and working in the snack bar for Tehachapi Youth Football. Through the Leona Valley Women's Club she also contributed hot lunches to Leona Valley Elementary and helped to fund the school library. She was a member of the PTA and helped run the concession stand for Quartz Hill Little League. She had many interests such as poetry, gardening and photography and several of her poems and photos won in local contests. Donna and her family went on many camping trips all over the United States with their children including back and forth to their vacation home in Laughlin, Nevada, where she enjoyed boating and spending time with her kids and grandchildren. Donna's strength and positivity are unmatched and she will live on through the memories of all who had the honor of knowing and loving her. Her life was an example of everything a woman should be and more. Donna never had a bad word to say about anyone. Her bravery through her entire struggle with Parkinson's disease was unparalleled, never complaining once, but handling her 26-year fight with grace and perseverance, all while maintaining her faith in Jesus. Words cannot explain how blessed you were to know her and influence she had on her family and friends.

Services for Donna will be held Sept. 7 at Tehachapi Church of Christ, 401 S. Mill St., at 11 a.m. Following the memorial service there will be a graveside service and a reception back at the Church of Christ.