October 29, 1948 – June 3, 2024
Rickie ‘Rick’ Allen Blocksom, 75, of Mitchell, passed away Monday, June 3, 2024, at his residence.
Born October 29, 1948, in Terre Haute, he was the son of Kenneth C. and Lois Irene (Ruszler) Blocksom. He married Alice Ann Byrley on August 17, 1968, and she preceded him in death on November 30, 2021.
Rick worked on the railroad with his father-in-law, who was the engineer. He would ride in the caboose as the brakeman. He retired from the New York Central Railroad and began his career in law enforcement in 1977.
He was a Monroe County Sheriff’s Department colonel and served as chief deputy until December 31, 2005. During his career, he was the first canine handler for Monroe County, a senior firearms instructor, and a member of SWAT. Rick provided security for several famous people and got to escort Elvis. He lastly was a bailiff for the Circuit Court for nine judges until 2015. Rick was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police.
Rick enjoyed shooting firearms, skeet and clay shooting, and was proud to have shot in the Bianchi Cup. He also was an avid sports fan, especially boxing, wrestling, and racing.
His daughter, Nikki (Joseph) Stinson of Mitchell, and sister, Jan (Tony) Taylor of Indianapolis, survive.
His parents and wife preceded him in death.
Graveside service will be at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 7, at Mitchell Cemetery with Jeremy Robertson officiating.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.chastainfuneralhome.com.
