Bret Rickman

Bret Rickman, M.S., M. ED of Lynden, WA, passed away unexpectedly on February 28,

2026. Bret was 67 years old and just contemplating retirement from Portland Community

College where he was a full-time faculty member of the math and dual credit programs.

Teaching was his second career after spending 22 years in the semi-conductor industry at IBM

in Vermont and Lattice Semiconductor in Oregon.

Bret was a kind, gentle, thoughtful, well-respected colleague and teacher who gave of

himself generously and believed strongly in the value of education. Bret had also been a long-

time volleyball coach in Oregon and high school teacher before working for PCC.

Most importantly, Bret was a greatly loved and cherished husband, father, and

grandfather. Bret was a native of Fort Wayne, IN, where he met his wife, Julie in High School,

and was married for 45 years. His parents, Donald and Marilyn Rickman both preceded him in

death. His survivors are his brother, Kyle Rickman, wife, Julie Rickman, son Garret (Lynae)

Rickman, grandson, Levi, and daughter, Ali (Ken) Pelletier. In addition, he had several brothers

and sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bret was a Godly man, giving his life to follow Jesus Christ when he was 20 years old. He

strove to serve God by loving his family and neighbors, and he did that well. He loved being a

grandfather and wanted to have an influence on his grandson like his grandfather had been to

him. Bret also enjoyed God's creation most often with Julie as they regularly walked, hiked,

biked, went cross-country skiing, canoed, and would linger, savor the moments, and praise God

for His everlasting grace and love.

Bret will be deeply missed but remains in the hearts of all who love him until we can see

him again someday. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Sonlight

Community Church in Lynden, WA on March 20, 2026, at 10:00 A.M.