In 1909 Charles's wife Flora was listed in Kelly's Directory of Surrey as a dressmaker. The family lived at 4 Aden Cottages in the Vale Road, which was almost opposite the Admiral Napier pub, and daughters Ada and Annie attended Ash Common School.

Charles Ricketts (41) of the Aden Laundry applied for exemption from conscription. On 20 April 1917 the Aldershot News reported that his case had been considered by a Local Military Tribunal and that he had been given 3 months to arrange for someone to carry on his business.

The Surrey and Hants News of 24 January 1918 reported that Mrs Ricketts of Ash Vale had been informed that her husband was missing presumed drowned. A form completed for the Ash War Memorial committee states that Charles Ricketts had served for just 4 months, and Mrs Ricketts, of 4 Aden Cottages Ash Vale, subscribed 2/6d towards the Ash War Memorial.