Ricky L. Cannon

Ricky was a man who found happiness in the simple things in life, the things that brought people together and created memories that would last forever. He loved fishing, spending time outdoors, tractor pulls, traveling, and demolition derbies. But above all else, his greatest love was his family. His wife, children, parents, brother, nieces, and nephews were the center of his world, and the love he had for them was immeasurable.

Ricky graduated from Sylvan Unified High School and went on to attend North Central Kansas Technical College, where he earned his certificate in Heavy Equipment Operating. Following the completion of his education, he began working at HAMMS before later joining Waste Management. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished son and brother, and a proud uncle. The relationships he built throughout his life meant everything to him, and he was surrounded by the love of family and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts. His life was not measured by the number of years he lived, but by the love he gave, the memories he made, and the lives he touched along the way.

On May 17th, 2003, Ricky married Shannon M. (Chermak) Cannon, beginning a life together filled with love, shared experiences, and memories that will remain with her forever. She survives him, along with their children, Griffyn Swartz, Alexandra Cannon, Lily Cannon, and Phoenix Cannon; his parents, Randy Lee and Terri Lynn Cannon; his brother, Chad Cannon (Melissa); and his beloved nieces and nephews.

Though Ricky’s time here was far too short, the love surrounding him was great, and the love he leaves behind is even greater. His family and friends will carry him with them in the stories they tell, the laughter they share, the fishing trips and family gatherings they remember, and in the countless little moments that will forever remind them of him. The pain of losing him is a reflection of just how deeply he was loved. While nothing can replace his presence, the memories he created and the love he gave will remain a part of his family forever.

A Celebration of Ricky’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7th, 2026, at Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave., Topeka, Kansas.

In keeping with Ricky’s wishes, a “Keg Party” will follow at the Cannon Family Farm, in rural Hoyt, Kansas. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, raise a glass, and celebrate Ricky’s life the way he wanted-with the people he loved, surrounded by the memories they will carry with them forever.

Ricky will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. His time on earth may have ended far too soon, but his place in the hearts of his wife, children, parents, brother, nieces, nephews, and friends will never fade. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the people who meant the most to him and the memories they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

To leave the family a special message, please utilize the guestbook entries area shown below.