Phillip Lester Rickleff

Phillip Lester “Phil” Rickleff, 80, of Frankfort, passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Clinton House Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. He was born in Elgin, Illinois on September 5, 1945 to Lester and Ruth (Malin) Rickleff.

Phil was a graduate of Monticello High School and then went to college where he earned his Bachelor of Science Manchester University. He then traveled to Tuscon, where he attended University of Arizona where he received his MBA with top honors. Phil served in the United States Air Force shortly after the Vietnam War. He was a great athlete and played basketball and some football in high school and college. He worked his first job as National Cash Register, and worked several banking jobs before he eventually ended up working as a manager in Lafayette at Sherwin Williams. Phil enjoyed reading his bible and looking at the world Atlas. He also enjoyed his time alone, but loved his family dearly and was always asking about everyone’s latest news.

Phil is survived by his brother, Steven (Kristi) Rickleff; sister, Jane Packer; nieces and nephews, Adam, Aaron (Amy), Andrew, Heather (Dave), Alison (Tim), and Mark; along with many great nieces, great nephews, and several cousins.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, who loved him dearly.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 3:30pm at Buffalo Cemetery, north of Monticello. Day & Genda Funeral home is assisting with the arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.