Donald L. Wickman, aged 87, of Morris Run, PA, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Donald was born in Blossburg, PA, on Saturday, August 13, 1938. He was the son of Oscar Leonard Wickman and Esther Larson Wickman.
On August 4, 1962, Donald married Joyce Nybeck. Together, they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage until Joyce’s passing on October 2, 2021
Donald was employed at Ward Manufacturing, where he dedicated 48 years of service.
At the age of 15 after a day of school, he would go to work for the mines.
He was a lifetime member of Arnot Sportsmen Club, Hillside Rod and Gun Club, and Theodore Roosevelt American Legion Post # 167 in Morris Run.
Don deeply cherished spending time outdoors and found great joy in activities such as camping, hunting, and fishing.
In addition, Don enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, and word search games.
Bowling was another passion that Don pursued wholeheartedly. He was a regular at the Maple Lanes Bowling Alley in Mansfield, PA, where he participated in two leagues. He bowled on Mondays and Wednesdays. His commitment to the sport extended to tournament play, where his talent earned him several trophies. Don continued to bowl enthusiastically until the closure of the bowling lanes.
Don was cherished by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. His remarkable warmth allowed him to connect with people instantly, often turning first encounters into lasting friendships.
Above all, Don’s greatest love was his family. He was devoted to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. At one point in his life, Don worked three different jobs to ensure that every family Christmas was memorable and filled with joy.
Don is survived by his children Elaine Laudenslager, Morris Run, Gary (Lisa) Wickman, Blossburg and daughter-in-law Kimberly Wickman, Blossburg. Grandchildren include, Chris (Lindsey) Wickman, Wellsboro, Rachel Smith, Covington, Susan (Bryson) Wilson, Wellsboro, Alyssa (Jerry Hodder) Roupp, Blossburg. Eric Meeker lll, Pottstown, Karl (Kallie) Wickman, Blossburg, Courtney (Ray Madison) Fontenot, Westfield.
Great-grandchildren include, Hayden Wilson, Wellsboro, Aiden Warmington, Birdsboro, Nola Hodder, Blossburg, Hendrix Hodder, Blossburg, Makynlee Smith, Covington. Aurora Wilson, Wellsboro, Bradley Wickman, Wellsboro, Gaige Fontenot, Westfield, Jack Wilson, Wellsboro, Karleigh Wickman, Wellsboro, Eleanor Wickman, Blossburg, Ryleigh Binder, Pottstown and Jace Wickman, Blossburg.
Don was preceded by in death by his parents and sons, Ronald Wickman and Karl Wickman, a granddaughter Melanie Wickman, brother, Gorden Wickman, sisters, Leona Mesuch and Arlene Barr.
Family and friends may call Monday January 19th at the Freeberg Funeral Home from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Funeral Services will follow at 5 p.m. with Pastor Candice Chase officiating.
Interment will be at Arbon Cemetery, Blossburg.
The family wishes to thank the UPMC Hospice of Wellsboro for the wonderful care they gave to Don.
