Ron Ricker Memorial Bench

The Ron Ricker Running Club (RRRC) began in 1994. Ron Ricker initially organized a dedicated group of noontime YMCA runners, sometimes called "The A Team," before expanding the effort to include weekend morning runs departing from 49th and Grand. For more than three decades, the RRRC has maintained its tradition of conversational-paced runs, prioritizing community over mileage. While the distances and pace have naturally tapered over the years, the spirit of the RRRC community remains strong—a testament to Ron, who served as the club’s enthusiastic founder and constant source of camaraderie.

A State Fair regular: While many Iowans looked forward to opening day at the Iowa State Fair to start their annual “must do” rituals, Ron had already checked one important box: Ron was at the front Iowa State Fair parades, escorting Bill Riley (and later Bill Riley Jr.) down Grand Avenue in his shiny red 2005 Corvette. Ron was beaming!

And who could forget Ron’s Fair accomplishment, few will ever match: Who amongst us could boast of eating his height in foot-long chili dogs?

Donate to the Ron Ricker Memorial Bench

If you would like to mail in a check donation to support the Ron Ricker Memorial Bench, please send it to:

Friends of Des Moines Parks

Attn: Ron Ricker Memorial Bench

1551 E MLK Jr Pkwy

Des Moines IA 50317

The Friends of Des Moines Parks is a nonprofit 501c3 organization with a mission to preserve, protect, improve, and promote the use of Des Moines’ parks, greenways, and recreational programs for the benefit of all neighborhoods, residents, and visitors. The Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department is not responsible for replacing trees in the event that they are damaged due to normal wear and tear, natural disaster or vandalism. Please contact your tax professional to determine if your purchase is tax-deductible.