Bob Wickman remembered for his laugh and compassion

"It is with great sorrow that we share the death of Robert Wickman III, 58, on Sept. 21, 2021, in Anchorage, from complications of COVID-19," his family wrote. "A resident of Ketchikan, he was devoted to his wife Roseanne, and his son, Robbie, and was a steadfast supporter for all his extended family. He took pride in being a leader in both Yellow Taxi Co. and his beloved Boy Scout Troop."

Bob was known for many things, including a boisterous laugh, dedicated work ethic, and always putting others first. "Most especially, we remember his love of family and a heart as immense as his beloved Alaska."

Born in Wrangell on July 1, 1963, to parents Darlynne Gendreau and Robert Wickman Jr., Bob grew up surrounded by a large extended family. Not only was he close to his mother and father, he was devoted to his six siblings. He also cherished his time with his grandparents before they passed, loved visiting his numerous aunties and uncles, and strove to be a role model and resource for his nieces and nephews.

"While Bob was a bit of a troublemaker in his youth, as his family and teachers will attest, he matured into a man that was devoted to and embodied concern for others," his family said.

"Bob's commitment to others was rooted in love and in service; he believed fiercely in both care and compassion. Like many others in his family, Bob served many years with the volunteer fire and EMT services in Wrangell and Ketchikan; to ease someone's pain and fear during an emergency was a calling for Bob. It was a surprise for many when Bob became a Boy Scout in his 40s (since he was anything but during his 20s), becoming a troop leader for Robbie, and then continuing to lead after Robbie grew up. "Not all boys have a dad that can do this with them."

Bob's family and community will feel his absence deeply. His dedication to his wife of 31 years, Roseanne, and his son, Robbie, was well known. They loved salmon fishing, walking on local trails, creating piles of books, and collecting movies to watch together. "With them, we will all miss his boisterous laugh and untamable curly hair. The loss of his immense heart and generous compassion will be felt by many."

Bob is survived by his wife, Roseanne Wickman, and son Robert Wickman IV, both of Ketchikan; his parents, Darlynne (Ron) Gendreau, Robert (Cheri) Wickman Jr.; siblings, John (Heather) Wickman, Brenalee Campbell, Thomas (Seanne) Wickman, Kimberly Wickman, Suzanne (Matthew) Wallace, and Michael Gendreau. He is also mourned by 15 nieces and nephews, and a wealth of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Due to COVID, a celebration of life will be held in March at Ward Lake in Ketchikan, date and time to follow. When weather permits, the family will take Bob on one last trip up his beloved Stikine River, where he spent his youth. "We ask that you honor Bob through embodied, active care for your family and community."