In Memory of James Wickman (1931-2019)
We offer our condolences to the family and colleagues of the Rev. James “Jim” Allen Wickman who died on November 29, 2019, at the age of 88.
Jim was born on November 9, 1931 in Omaha, NE to James Augustus Wickman and Christine Elizabeth (Hardin) Wickman. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1953, a Master of Business Administration in 1954, and PhD. in Business in 1961, all from the University of Washington. Jim worked at the University of Washington as an Associate Professor, teaching Social Responsibility of Business and Ethics in Business from 1956 to 1982. At the end of 1982, he opted for an early retirement from his teaching; in 1983, the University of Washington honored him as Professor Emeritus. Later in life, Jim discerned his call to ministry and earned his Master of Divinity from Northwest Theological Union, Seattle, WA in 1991.
Rev. Wickman was ordained on September 8, 1991 by the Shoreline Unitarian Church, Seattle, WA. Prior to his ordination, he interned at the Kitsap UU Fellowship, Bremerton, WA. After his ordination, he accepted a call from the Community UU Church, Pasco, WA and served for two years until 1994. Following his first settlement, Rev. Wickman was occasionally called upon for pulpit engagements. In 1999, he retired from active ministry.
Rev. Wickman served the Pacific Northwest District (PNWD) as President for two years, and a Board member for five years (1980-1985). He functioned as Registrar of the PNWD Unitarian Leadership School (1980-1987) and served the PNWD Leadership School Committee. Furthermore, he was founding member of Shoreline Unitarian Church, WA and Secretary of the UUMA Chapter.
Throughout his life, Jim continued teaching part time. He had several of his writings published including “Christmas Stories,” UU World, 1981; “Lighting the Candles of Christmas,” Christmas Eve Service, Worship Arts Clearing House, 1981; Christmas Stories, “REACH Christmas Collection, 1986. He was involved with the Habitat for Humanity group (in three cities: Pasco, Kennewick and Richland, WA) as a volunteer builder. In his spare time Jim enjoyed cabinetry, carpentry, photography and travel.
Jim is survived by his wife of 42 years, Janet L. Tyler; his children Shelley Weisberg, Jeff Wickman, and Cristy Wickman; his stepchildren Richard Ingham and Lori Bartosh; as well as his seven grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Church, 14724 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155.
In remembrance of Jim, his family will be presenting and participating in “My Love Affair with the Mountains” a program of Jim’s photography, music and poetry (originally created by Jim for the initial Earth Day celebrations in Seattle, WA). The memorial program will likely be presented in the Seattle area.
Notes of condolences may be sent to Janet Tyler at 4009 Vista Place, Pasco, WA 99301.