Newton, NH: Ricky Lee Bickerstaff, 69, a resident of Newton since 1995, died unexpectedly on December 18, 2018 in Manchester.

Born in Oildale, CA, son of the late Preston and Stella (Gilmore) Bickerstaff, he was raised and educated in Bakersfield and graduated Bakersfield High School with the Class of 1967. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, serving as a sharpshooter and was a recipient of the National Defense Service Medal.

Ricky was employed as a chef for Marriott In-Flight Services and retired as Operations Manager from the Boston office.

A member and longtime volunteer of the Carl David Post #34 of the American Legion in Plaistow, he was a Past Adjutant of the post and Past District Commander, and he served at various times as the post cook and bartender. He also helped to raise funds for veterans by organizing tournaments, cookouts and other fundraising events.

He enjoyed fishing, golfing and motorcycling.

Predeceased by his beloved wife Calvina (Kruger) Bickerstaff in 2016, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by three sons, Darren L. Bickerstaff and Ricky D. Bickerstaff, both of Newton and John D. Bickerstaff of Londonderry, a brother Wayne Bickerstaff and a sister Shirley Bickerstaff, both of Bakerfield, CA and three grandchildren, Jack, Lida, and Nicholas. He was predeceased by a sister Diane Bickerstaff.

Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of Ricky's life to be held on January 19, 2019 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Carl Davis Post of the American Legion, Main St., Plaistow. A family burial service with military honors will take place in the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, NH. Arrangements are under the direction of Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home, Plaistow, NH. To send a message of condolence to the family, please visit www.brooksidechapelfh.com