May 20, 1949 – March 9, 2026
Rainy River, Ontario
Donald Leonard Ricci passed away on March 9, 2026, at the age of 76. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, and man of faith whose warmth and presence left a lasting mark on those who knew him. At the centre of his life was his beloved wife, Lou, who was the great love of his life and his closest companion for more than half a century. From his children and grandchildren to his siblings, nieces, nephews, and in-laws, Don loved his family deeply.
Don spent much of his life as a teacher at the Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program. More than just a job, he cared about the students he worked with and believed in the potential of people who were often overlooked. His joy, creativity, and encouragement helped many students discover confidence in themselves.
He also had a love for faith, art, and community. Don had deep convictions and a passion for creativity. In addition to authoring several books, he was an avid painter, a passion he shared with his sisters, nieces, children, and grandchildren. Those close to him remember his genuine kindness, his infectious silliness, and the sincerity with which he engaged with everyone he met. He had a way of making others feel seen and valued, often offering calm wisdom, a quick laugh, or a thoughtful conversation when it was most needed.
Don is survived by his wife, Lou; his children Troy Ricci (Jennie) and Jamie Arpin-Ricci (Kim); and his beloved grandchildren Zephie, Tilly, and Ruby Ricci, and Micah and Finley Arpin-Ricci. He is also survived by his siblings: Christine (Gary) Armstrong, Brad (Marilyn) Ricci, Marty (Randy) Sisk, Corey (Darryl) Dyck, Karen (Gord) Ricci-Craig, and John (Barb) Ricci.
He was predeceased by his father Lenard Ricci; his mother Helen Ricci; Mildred Myers-Ricci; his parents-in-law Larry and Sophie Arpin; his brothers-in-law William Korchak and Richard Tolton; his sister-in-law Paulette Howden; and his nephew Lincoln Thomas.
Don will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, his passion, his creativity, and the steady love he gave to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his teaching, his art, and his gracious and enduring faith.
A Celebration of Life will be held on April 25, at 1:30 p.m. at Rainy River Evangelical Covenant Church in Rainy River, Ontario. Family and friends are welcome to gather to remember and celebrate Don’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rainy River Health Centre, the Rainy River Evangelical Covenant Church, the Rainy River Legion, Gideon ShareWord Global, Box 3619, Guelph ON, N1H 7A2 or any charity of your choice.
The service will be available to livestream: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/81958629744
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
