Robert Charles Wickman

Robert Charles Wickman

March 25, 1931 to October 10, 2025

Robert "BOB" Wickman was born on March 25, 1931 in Aitkin, Minnesota to Arnold and Wenona Wickman, where he lived with his older brother Don, until age 15. Growing up he enjoyed snow skiing and ice skating in the winter and fishing and hunting in the warmer months. In 1947, during his sophomore year in high school, his family moved to Salem, Oregon where he attended Salem High School. It was at that time that he met Jeanette Scheidel who would later become his wife. After graduating high school in 1949, he worked at a local service station until age 19. Knowing that he might soon be drafted he chose to enlist in the Navy. He attended Boot Camp and then Hospital Corps School at the Navy Hospital in San Diego, California. He then received orders to the Marine Corps Field Medic Training program at Camp Pendleton and completed his training as a Combat Medic by the time he was 22 years old. He arrived in Korea in June 1953 and was there until June of 1954. His first duty was with Item Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines. The experience of combat changed his life forever but he said serving with the Marines was the best duty he ever had.

After being discharged he attended college for three years, but did not complete his degree. He married Jeanette Scheidel in March 1955 and together they had three children. Kari Williams (Dan deceased), a retired registered nurse, Kevin (Karla), a retired deputy fire chief, Kris (Pam), a retired police detective. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in March of this year.

Bob spent most of his adult life working in retail following in the footsteps of his father. He worked at GI Surplus store, owned and operated Four Corners JarHead, and later worked at Keizer True Value. He was also a Volunteer Firefighter EMT for Keizer Fire District for nearly 13 years serving as their Medical Officer for much of that time. He then served as a member of the Fire District's Board of Directors for 6 years. The Keizer Fire District's "Bob Wickman Life Saving Award" is named in his honor. He was active in the 1st Marine Division Association and the Korean War Veteran's Association.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brother, son in law and a grandson. He is survived by his wife of 70 Years, three children, eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. At his request he will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery.