Harriet C. Rickel, 83, passed away on July 22, 2026, at Oakwood Health Campus in Tell City.

She was born in Cleveland, Ohio and was a veteran of the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. She was thankful to be able to go to Washington, D.C. with the Honor Flight of Southern Indiana. 

Harriet was a secretary most of her life, residing in several different locations around the country before moving back to Can-Do apartments to be near family.

She always had a love for elephants and spent lots of time at Wilstem Wildlife Park, in Paoli, offering to wash, feed and care for them. Harriet also had a German Shepherd that she had fond memories of.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Patsy (Persinger) Wilson and her children, Kim, Tracy and Gregory. Harriet and Patsy have been friends since they were 15 years old.

Harriet was recently reunited with a son, David Burgin and was thrilled to learn that she had a granddaughter, Grace Burgin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Louise (Beech) Rickel; a sister, Millie and her two children.

Huber Funeral Home, Cannelton Chapel, is assisting the family with Harriet’s wishes. There will be no services locally.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rivers Edge Animal Shelter.