The master craftsman’s forge is cold today, much to the sorrow of many in Yazoo and beyond.
Bobby Rico, whose handmade knives were desired for both their beauty and their superior quality, died Saturday of an apparent heart attack at age 62.
The Yazoo County bladesmith was best known by most for his knife making, but he was also considered by many to be a fantastic story teller and a good conversationalist.
“He was one of the most talented and interesting people I’ve ever met, and without a doubt, out of all that I’ve met, the greatest storyteller,” said John Chisolm, who first met Rico in 1997. “Being from Yazoo, that’s saying something. He’ll be dearly missed.”
Rico made his first knife in 1992, and he chose the Damascus blade that became his signature style because he wanted one and couldn’t afford it.
“I studied every book and article I could get my hands on, and through trial and error and seeking advice from knife makers I admired, I finally succeeded in making my first blade,” Rico said, when describing the origins of his craft. “I finally succeeded in making my first knife. I found that I couldn’t stop making them. As soon as I finished one I’d get an idea for another one.”
Every knife Rico crafted was one of a kind. He didn’t have a pattern for any of his knives. Each one was a new creation.
Rico used a variety of materials for his unique creations. What one might overlook, he saw potential in – anything ranging from cable blades to railroad spikes, saw blades and chain saws.
“I like taking something that might seem useless to others and turning it into my own piece of functional art,’ Rico said.
Many of his most popular pieces included knife handles made from wood, horn, antler, teeth, bone, ivory, oosik and leather.
“To me all things from nature are pieces of art unto themselves,” Rico said. “With His permission, I incorporate His art into my art.”
People began to take notice of his work rather quickly. From the beginnings of his humble shop, shared by his two dogs, a wood rat and six parrots...the Rico knife began to earn a reputation for quality..
The Rico name meant so much more than just a product. It became a testament.
“My Dad also taught me that a man is only as good as his word, that a good name is more precious than gold,” Rico said. “If it’s going to have your name on it, it should be of the highest quality you can achieve. Always do your best. That applied to every aspect of an honest man’s life.”
And Rico cared about the Yazoo community. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to the Yazoo Convention and Visitors Bureau. He opened the doors of his operation to many tourists. And he was very active with local events, including Antique Days.
“He was an asset to this community, and he will be truly missed,” said Shanitra Finley, director of the CVB. “He would often come by our office and tell jokes. Just two weeks ago, he came by to show off his new truck. It was a total shock to hearing of his passing.”
Rico’s talent went far beyond his creations. He was an ambassador for Yazoo County. He was a storyteller who loved to tell a good joke. He loved the gifts God left for him to work with in his craft.
Rico was a good man who forged friendships and character alongside his work.
“I don’t make my knives for the money alone; I make them because I love making them,” Rico said. “I’ll make them as long as I can lift my hammer.”
