George Ricketts Jr.

Butch Ricketts, known to many as George Ricketts Jr., passed away at home after a long illness on March 9, 2026. Born in Anchorage, Alaska in 1953, he spent his early years living on military bases around the world before returning to Madera as a junior in high school. He graduated from Madera High, his parents’ alma mater, and went on to build a lifelong career rooted in community and opportunity.

In 1972, Butch opened Ricketts Employment Agency with his father, George Ricketts Sr. Seven years later, he founded Pools by Ricketts, a business he ran for decades and which his family affectionately called his youngest child. Through both ventures, he made it his mission to employ at-risk youth and others who struggled to find work, giving them a chance to build better lives. He carried this commitment into his extensive community involvement with the Madera Exchange Club, Downtown Businessman Association, Private Industry Council, Economic Agency Commission, Businessman Coalition, Chamber of Commerce, Elks Lodge, and Madera Fair Board.

Beyond his work, Butch took great pride in the decade he spent coaching softball, helping numerous young athletes earn college opportunities through the sport. He enjoyed golf, slot machines, fair season, and camping, and remained active with the Fair Board and his business until his health declined in 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Ricketts Sr. and Lora Ladine Ricketts (née Crosno). Butch is survived by his devoted wife and business partner, Laura Ricketts (née Moore), and their daughters, Lisa and Amanda Ricketts. He will be remembered fondly by friends, customers, and family throughout Madera and the surrounding areas.