Charles Thomas Rickart

Charles Rickart, age 65, of Dayton, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones.   Born in Brainerd, Minnesota, and raised in Moorhead, Charles carried the values of hard work and integrity throughout his life. He graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in Civil Engineering and went on to dedicate more than 40 years to his profession. As a partner and Principal at WSB and Associates, Charles left a lasting mark on countless projects and colleagues across the region. Additionally, Charles served as a longtime member of the Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers. He held the PTOE (Professional Traffic Operations Engineer) certification and was the recipient of several industry honors, including recognition as one of the 7 Wonders of Engineering for a project that demonstrated exceptional innovation and impact.   From a young age, Charles was guided by a deep sense of duty and leadership, which was shaped in part by his time in the Boy Scouts. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and was later honored with the Vigil, the highest recognition in the Order of the Arrow—a testament to his lifelong commitment to service and community.   Charles was deeply devoted to his family. He was married to Christine Rickart (Lundstrom) for 42 years, and together they raised two sons, Adam (36) and Aaron (31), who married Heather Lumbert in 2024. He is also survived by his brother Doug (Mary) Rickart.   During his sons’ childhoods, Charles was actively involved in their lives and community. He coached youth baseball for many years, served on the local youth hockey board, and never missed a chance to cheer from the stands. He was known as the most dedicated and supportive parent—always present, always proud.   Charles also had a lifelong passion for Arabian horses. As an owner, breeder, and competitor, he was deeply committed to the breed and the community that surrounded it. He was a long-time and respected volunteer within the Arabian Horse Association, where he served in numerous leadership roles including Club President, Regional Director, Committee Chair, and as a member of the U.S. Arabian National Show Commission. His contributions left a lasting impact on the Arabian horse world, and his presence will be greatly missed by many in the community.   Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Anna Mae Rickart, and his niece, Megan Rickart.   A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 17th, at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in St. Paul, Minnesota. All who knew and loved Charles are welcome to attend and celebrate a life well-lived.   He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his profession, and his community.    Funeral Service & Celebration of Life Details

Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Service Location:

Cathedral of Saint Paul – National Shrine of the Apostle Paul

239 Selby Ave, St. Paul, MN 55102

Schedule:

• 10:00 – 11:00 AM – Informal Visitation (Cathedral) Main visitation at The Commodore following the service. 
• 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Funeral Service (Cathedral)
• 12:15 – 3:30 PM – Luncheon & Drop-In Visitation (The Commodore, 79 Western Ave N., St. Paul, MN)

Transportation & Parking:

The Cathedral has a small, free on-site parking lot and offers free street parking on nearby Summit Avenue. Shuttle service will run between The Commodore and the Cathedral before and after the service. 

Note: If you are unable to attend the service, please join us at The Commodore anytime between 12:15 and 3:30 PM for a celebration of Chuck’s life.

A livestream of Charles' Service can be accessed through this link: Cathedral of Saint Paul - YouTube