NEVADA - A CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICAN NOW IN GOD'S ARMS

In Honor of Frank RicottaDecember 11, 1954 - October 26, 2013

Leadership has been described as a process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task.  In the understanding of this definition, today we note the passing of Frank Ricotta, who offered leadership to his community through political involvement, and whose time as an emerging leader was cut way too short by the physical frailties of the human body.

Frank's leadership abilities seemed to come naturally, especially as it related to politics.  He had no formal training, no substantial financial resources, and no one paving the way for him to succeed.  What he did have was a unique ability to connect with people, even those with whom he did not agree in many ways.  His ability to find common ground with so many, to get people to work toward a common goal, even if it was just for a short time, is an ability that is in short supply.

Frank's involvement in politics came from a desire to make his county, his state, and his nation a better place, and from the satisfaction in bringing people together to work toward a common goal.  He served the Clark County Republican Party as Precinct Coordinator, Coalition Director, Political Director, Vice-Chairman, and Chairman.

Frank was a man of many titles:  Husband, Father, Grandpa, Pharmacist, Chairman, "Big Cheesy."  But for so many of us that knew him, the most important title was "Friend."  His tenacity and resilience was exemplary.  His interest in politics and the Republican Party - and his hope that people would develop a better ability to work together - never waned, even as cancer and other painful physical failures racked his body.  While many others would just be trying to bear the physical pain, Frank was expressing concern that people weren't working together, and frustrated that there wasn't more he could give, more he could do.

The lasting impression Frank made on the lives he touched are echoed repeatedly throughout our community as seen in the following comments:

Frank has been a great friend and political confidante to me since 2009. I truly admired him more when he told me his story of how he retired and came to Las Vegas from New York to live his life out in playing poker and enjoying sports.  However, because his love of country was so strong, he couldn't just sit on the sidelines watching it crash and burn, he HAD to do something! That he did.  He inspired many of us through his actions and his words. Whenever I mentioned his name in my house, my kids would say "ah! The Big Cheese!" Yes, he was. He will be greatly missed.  I am thankful that I knew him and learned from him and the service he has given to the Clark County Republican Party and the conservative cause these last few years. - Sally Minster

Frank was a very fair man. He stood on his principles, but would always listen to your side.  He would reason things out with you and still fight for what he believed. I had great respect for him and enjoyed his company. He was warm and giving and always had a smile. He will be sorely missed. - Barbara Altman

And so we carry on, and while Frank will not be with us, there will still be a reflection of light to guide us. As we bid farewell, let us remember that one person can make a difference and leave a lasting impact on the lives of other human beings.

Frank's family has requested that, in honor of Frank's dedication and commitment to the Clark County Republican Party and conservative principles, donations be made to the Clark County Republican Party to help continue to work toward our common goal.

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Thank you Eddie Facey, Sally Minster, Barbara Altman, and other members of the
Clark County Republican Party for your help in preparing this tribute.