Frederick "Ricky" G. Ogez

Through a series of strange events, I just found out about this… I didn’t know him really, not by name. I first noticed him when he started coming to the library. He stood out like some do, but in a good way. In a ‘force you to smile’ way. I said my usual thank you’s every time he left, and he was always smiling and so polite. Do you know how you see “regulars” all the time, but then when you see eachother in a new place, you’re not sure how you know them? I was in the Target line one day and my cashier was this young kid, colored mohawk, piercings, tattoos … I thought it strange that he was allowed to wear all of it. I love it personally, and think it’s great artistic expression … just not what you usually see in the workplace. We were chatting and it turns out we recognized eachother from the library … “I knew you looked familiar, I love the library!” … I always sought him out at Target. We only crossed paths a few times in the checkout lane after that. But he is someone I would have loved to have gotten to know further. The last few times I was in Target I didn’t see him … I have to admit I was a bit sad each time. Now I understand why. For all his close friends and family, I am sorry for your loss …

I remember when Ricky transfetred to my elementary school. Everyone took great interest in him because he was the new kid. I later learned that there was much more to it. Ricky radiated a type of energy far greater than any other person I have ever encountered. He was the epitome of selflessness, living not for himself but for the happiness of others. He was always kind, and accepting of everyone. Never in all of the years that I knew him did I hear him speak badly about anyone. I never saw him talk down to anyone either. The only time I ever saw him express anger was when he couldn’t land a trick on his skateboard. His kindness had an impact on anyone that crossed his path. I knew Ricky before the stresses of life started to take affect. Ricky and I did everything together. He was a brother to me. He inspired me to challenge myself no matter the risks. He introduced me to some of my greatest passions that I still do to this day. The first time that ever strapped into a snowboard was at his house. Years later we were competing on the same team. He coached me for months, if not years to land my first kickflip on a skateboard. Ricky was very passionate about everything. His determination and persistance made him the best at everything he did, and I looked up to him because of it. Most importantly Ricky was the purest of hearts. He was very religious growing up, and I believe that he was the best example of what that means. He never once judged anyone, even if they were unkind, or had beliefs that differed from his. I always admired that about him. He truly loved everyone, and would have done anything for them even if it was an inconvenience to himself. Ricky may have left his physical form, but the impression he made on us is everlasting. I strongly believe that he would have wanted nothing more than to be an inspiration in how we treat others from day to day.

Fred worked for me at West Duluth Walgreens and proved to be a very colorful individual. I can honestly say that after working with hundreds of employees for 32 years Fred was one of the kindest peole I have ever met. Fred’s candle burned bright and we all were very lucky to have crossed paths with such a fine young man. Peace my friend.

So sorry to hear about Ricky. My deepest sympathy to Fred and Jane and the Ogez family. He was our next door neighbor growing up. He was kind enough to come over and spend hours taking photos of one of our children’s graduation open house and Eagle Scout Ceremony. A nice young man! Al and Jeanne Sova

I didnt know him personally, but he was my favorite cashier at Target. If he was working, I was in his line, because he was always so kind and friendly, and willing to talk, and great at bagging. Even my daughter enjoyed going in his line. Im so sorry for everyone’s loss. Our last conversation was about the Lord of the Rings books, and how he had re-read them several times. I pray he is finally at peace, with whatever struggles he was enduring down here. And no matter how small, he did touch a place in a stranger’s life, and I hope his friends and family can find a small bit of comfort in knowing that.

One of the greatest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing. I’ll miss you brother.

I met Ricky working at Target, Forest Lake. I have never in my life met a kinder, friendly, warm hearted person. He made a huge impact on my life, and everyday was little brighter when I was graced with his bright smile and beautiful energy. He will be missed by our Target family, but never forgotten. He is at peace with the Lord now, sending prayers to his friends and family.

I have so many great memories with Rick! He was a very good friend of mine! He was such a loving, caring, quirky individual! I am grateful I had the blessing of spending time with him here.

I am so sorry to hear about Ricky. He was a very good friend of my son Tyler when they were younger and spent lots of time at our house. Although I haven’t seen him in quite awhile, I will always remember him as a super nice kid and great skateboarder who loved his friends, family and God. He would always say “love you” to his mom and dad when saying goodbye. He would often pick up litter on the street and put it in the trash can (even tho his friends teased him about it). My heart aches for his family and all of our losses. However, I’m sure Ty and Ricky are having a great time tearing it up together in heaven!