Jeffrey Hickman

JEFFREY A. "Jeff" HICKMAN, age 55, of Maple Park, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family at Manor Care in Elgin, on Saturday, May 19, 2012. BORN: He was born August 23, 1956, in Chicago, IL, the son of Michael James and Betty Lou (Zumsteg) Hickman.EARLY YEARS:Jeff grew up in Hanover Park, IL, and attended local schools. Following his graduation from Elgin High School, Jeff worked many local jobs but found a home in the Electricians Union, Local #9, for more than ten years. MARRIAGE: Jeff met Laura Fencl during their teenage years. As the years went by, what was once a friendship turned into forty years of memories when they were united in marriage on January 15, 1982. RESIDENTIAL HISTORY: They began their new life together in Elgin and welcomed three children, Jeff, James, and Jessica. The family moved to Maple Park in the early 1990s where they have continued to make their home. MEMBERSHIPS: Jeff was a member of Independent Order of Odd Fellows for many years. LIFE NOTES: He loved driving, whether it was on four wheels or two; he was a dedicated racer. As long as it had a motor, Jeff was your man. From fixing his stock cars to his beloved Harley Davidson, you would never find Jeff without a little grease under his fingernails. When he wasn’t in his garage surrounded by the sounds of wrenches and certain exclamations, Jeff could be found enjoying the outdoors and occasionally hunted but when it came other members of Mother Nature, you could find no better friend. In his backyard you could find a wide selection of bird feeders which provided a buffet of bird seed specific to each visitor, so that no one flew away wanting more. He was also dedicated to his community and fellow man through his time with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal organization. Above all he was a loving father who was happiest making memories with his wife and children. His life change in an instant when he and Laura were hospitalized after a motorcycle accident during a charity run on June 25, 2006. Although Laura recovered from her injuries, Jeff never did. He was forced to live the rest of his life dependant on the love and devotions of his wife and children who cared for his every need, as a tribute of the love and dedication he so willingly gave. Although his body was broken, his spirit never was and now he is free to ride the highways of Heaven. SURVIVORS: He is survived by his loving wife Laura of Maple Park, Three children:Jeff (Amanda) Hickman of Janesville, WI, James Hickman of Sycamore, IL and Jessica Hickman of Maple Park, IL;His parents, Mike and Betty Hickman;His in-laws, Ron and Pearl Fencl;Two brothers:John (Karen) Hickman and Chris Hickman and of friends.PRECEDED:He is preceded in death by his grandparents. VISITATION / FUNERAL Visitation will be Friday, May 25, 2012, from 3-7:30 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. An Independent Order of Odd Fellows service will be held in his honor beginning at 7:30 p.m. Private family interment will follow cremation at a later date.MEMORIAL In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the "Jeffrey Hickman Memorial" and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

Visitation will be Friday, May 25, 2012, from 3-7:30 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. An Independent Order of Odd Fellows service will be held in his honor beginning at 7:30 p.m.