Rick was born in Napa, California to Robert and Loyce Bakker, the 3rd of 5 children. Rick attended local schools, and at Napa High School became well known for his unmatched basketball skills long after his graduation in 1971. Rick was an amazing athlete and enjoyed a mean game of tennis whenever an opponent took the challenge!
Rick married Lisa Brown and had two sons, Benjamin and Justin Bakker, and later divorced. In 1990, he married Deanna (Hall) Cestnik, who also had two sons, Don and John Cestnik. With four growing young men you can only imagine the amount of grocery shopping that was done!
As accomplished as an athlete Rick was, his finish carpentry skills far surpassed most journeyman in the construction field. Grassi & Associates Construction was home and family for Rick throughout the majority of his 40+ year career. It was a common thing to hear Rick say, "You're lookin' sharp!". Rick could work all day and still go home in a clean shirt! He was meticulous in his presence and in his work ethics.
Rick retired March 1, 2016 and enjoyed spending time playing tennis, going on walks with Deanna and trusty canine companion, Buddy.
Passing away after a brief battle with cancer, Rick leaves behind his beautiful wife, Deanna and sons, Ben, Justin, Don and John.
Please join us as we celebrate Rick's life on November 5, 2021, 12 noon, at Tulocay Reception Hall, 411 Coombsville Rd., Napa, CA.
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