Harold R. Ryckman

Harold R. Ryckman, 93, passed away at his apartment at Edgewood Village, Bismarck, ND, June 10, 2025. Cremation has taken place and a funeral will be held Monday, June 16 at 11:00am, at the Pollock Memorial Presbyterian Church, Pollock, SD Interment will be held at the Dale Cemetery, Emmons County, ND Bismarck Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral and graveside service.

Harold Raymond Ryckman was born September 29, 1931, in Emmons County, ND, to Fred and Mary (Boschker) Ryckman. He attended the Union School (also known as the Kuntz school) until 8th grade and then farmed with his dad. He was drafted into the U.S Army in February, 1952. He had basic training in Fort Breckenridge, TN, going on to serve in Korea. He was honorably discharged as a Sargeant (E-5) in 1953. Happy to be back on the family farm, he continued farming, deciding to attend Wahpeton State Scientific School (now known as NDSCS) to earn his certificate in General Mechanics and Welding.

October 15, 1960, he married Mary Lee Seymour. They built the family farmhouse at its current location in Emmons County, where they enjoyed many happy years. Harold and his brothers farmed together, helping plant and harvest at each homestead during the busy farm year. A farm boy to the core, Harold knew the weather and land as only a true farmer would. Having three children in less than 5 years, Harold could often be seen on the farmyard or a field with at least one of his kids, sitting on the tractor fender, playing in the silo or barn while he did chores, or riding along.

The farm took many hours and many hands to run, but there was time for fun too. Harold loved to go fishing, and spent time teaching his kids to fish. He also taught all three of them to waterski one memorable summer. He played cards and board games with kids and grandkids, and was very difficult to beat! He took time to take regular mini vacations with the family during the busy year.

Harold served his community for many years serving as President of the Union School Board, the American Legion, Board member of the Linton Bank.

His legacy is one of a farmer: love of the land and open spaces, the joy to self govern and be self sufficient. He instilled this love of farming in his children and grandchildren, all of whom spent many happy times on the family farm. He was a good friend, a loyal and soft spoken man who’s word was his bond. He will be missed.

Blessed to have shared his life are his children, Beth (Ray) Serra, Spencer (Mitzi) Ryckman and Tracy (Pat) Schaeffer. Keeping happy memories of their grandpa are his grandchildren: Joseph (Nika) Serra, Emily Serra; Anthony (Jenn) Ryckman, Adam (Brittany) Ryckman, Ben (Kristen) Ryckman, Brady Ryckman; Christopher Schaeffer, Tyler Schaeffer and Kasy Schaeffer. Great-grandchildren: Liam and Owen Serra; Oliver, Nolan and Abram Ryckman; Finn, Mac and Bryce Ryckman; Mason and Kendall Ryckman; Lucy and Bennett Ryckman. Harold also leaves many beloved nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends.

He is survived by his brothers, Ronald, and Arlo, and his sisters, Mildred, Verda and Leona. He was preceded in death by parents, his wife, Mary, his brothers, Peter, Floyd, Lawrence, Harvey and sisters, Lillie and Angeline.