Kenneth Charles Wickman November 22, 1939 – October 23, 2026
Kenneth Charles Wickman, affectionately known as Ken to family and friends and “Woodtick” to his hunting buddies, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born November 22, 1939, in Marinette, Wisconsin, to Charlie and Bessie Wickman, Ken grew up on the family farm in Porterfield. At 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving nearly four years aboard the USS Hornet. He later returned to Wisconsin, where he spent most of his working years as a logger.
Ken was happiest outdoors, hunting, fishing, and watching the birds. A longtime member of the Northeastern Wisconsin Coyote and Cat Club, he also loved a good game of Smear or Wizard, especially when accompanied by laughter and friendly teasing.
At 38, Ken married Dawn and welcomed her four young daughters into his life, loving and raising them as his own. Though their marriage later ended, they remained friends. Ken often joked, “Well, it didn’t work out, but I got four beautiful daughters out of the deal!” Those daughters, along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, were among his greatest joys.
With his quick wit, kind heart, and easygoing nature, Ken had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. He was a longtime member of Porterfield Lutheran Church.
Ken is survived by his four daughters, Tammy Bulik (Chris), Danell Buzzell (Tracy), DeAnna Gungor (Mark), and Toshia Ranallo (John); 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Donald Wickman; his sisters, Mildred Passig, Dorothy Lund, Audrey Raabe, Faye Edelburg, and Betty Martin; his nephews, Bruce Martin and David Wickman; his granddaughter, Marina Buzzell; and his beloved dog and faithful companion, Chummy.
Ken lived simply, laughed easily, and loved wholeheartedly. He was everyone’s favorite person, not because he tried to be, but because he was simply Ken.
And what a gift it was to know and love him.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Porterfield Lutheran Church in Porterfield, Wisconsin. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service, with burial afterward.
Hansen-Onion-Martell funeral home is assisting the family.
