Diane Sheedlo Wickham, 76, of Rapid River, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Her passing was the result of a tragic bicycle accident.
Diane was born in 1948 to William and Marilyn (née Eis) Sheedlo and was one of five siblings. A proud graduate of the Escanaba High School Class of 1966, Diane continued her education at Bay de Noc Community College. She went on to dedicate 25 years of service to Escanaba Area Public Schools as a devoted Teacher Assistant, where she touched the lives of countless students with her kindness and steady presence. On October 26, 1968, Diane married the love of her life, Bill Wickham. Together, they built a life marked by enduring love, faith, and family, raising two children, Randy and Heather. Their marriage of 56 years was a testament to commitment, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Diane’s Christian faith was the foundation of her life. She cherished singing hymns that lifted the name of God and instilled those values in her family. Her greatest joy came from her role as a grandmother. Her grandchildren were her heart’s delight, and she poured endless love into every moment spent with them — whether it was golf cart rides along Garth Point Lane and through the woods, or simple days filled with laughter and stories. Diane also shared a deep affection for her beloved dogs, who were constant companions through the years.
Diane is survived by her devoted husband, Bill Wickham of Rapid River; son, Randy (Paulette) Wickham of Escanaba; and her treasured grandchildren, Garth, Grant (Lexi Roberge), and Gracie Wickham. She is also survived by her brothers, Bill (Bonnie) Sheedlo and Jeff (Joyce) Sheedlo; her sisters, Barb (Dan) Stiglitz and Jan (Dave) Vallier; sisters-in-law, Mary (Don) Verdon and Rita Wickham; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Heather Wickham; her parents, William and Marilyn (née Eis) Sheedlo; her in-laws, Albert and Dora (née Sturge) Wickham; sisters-in-law, Nancy Carissimi and Martha Bozzo; and brother-in-law, Al Wickham.
Diane’s warmth, steady faith, and endless love for her family will be profoundly missed butjoyfully remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Memorials may be directed to the Delta CountyAnimal Shelter. The Wickham Family greatly appreciates the care and compassion from the first responders and OSF Emergency Department staff.
Donald Verdon - Evanston, Il
The Verdon family are in shock our prayers are flowing for her and to Bill and the Wickham Family.Memories are replaying our annual visit’s since 1970 singing Tom Dooley in the wee hours of the morning truck rides ice cream stops lunches along the shores of the lake coffee visit’s on Garth Point Diane’s golf cart rides her beautiful singing voice her famous weather reports from her home on the point so many lasting memories Diane will never be Forgotten till we meet again.Love Don Mary Michelle Stacey and Don Jr.
Julie & Matt Hoffmeyer - Ford River, Mi
Our hearts are broken. Diane was the sweetest, kindest, loving soul. Our family sends it deepest condolences to her entire family. Daine was not just beautiful on the outside, but on the inside too.
Michelle Miller Keenan - Escanaba, MI
Bill and Randy,
My grandparents (the Browns) lived next to you, I was friends with Heather. I am so sorry to hear of Diane’s passing. You are in my thoughts.
Lisa Verdon - Chicago , Il
Aunt Diane was the best. From taking our kids on the golf cart whenever we came up to the UP, to always having snacks at the ready and her smile was infectious. God bless her, we will miss her dearly.
Heidi Graunstadt - Waterford, MI
Diane’s daughter Heather was my best friend and room mate in Michigan. We met Diane and Bill after we lots Heather and they were the absolute kindest souls. Our hearts are with Bill, Paulette and Randy – no family deserves so much loss and heartache!
Jolaine Anderson - Gladstone, MI
Our deepest sympathy Bill and families.
We had our fun times at Webster School raising children together. Diane would always volunteer for PTO duties. We have many fun memories playing volleyball in the gym.
Always a smile or a laugh, kindest, friendly lady Heaven will enjoy!
Blessings to all, Terry & Jolaine Anderson
Sheriff Gary Carlson (Ret) - Lakeland, FL
My deepest sympathies to Bill and the family. I grew up with Diane in “Nort town”, went through every grade of school with her. Our “Prom Queen” is with the angels now, where she will fit right in. Diane had a great sense of humor and as kids she just loved to tease me. I loved every minute of it. Rest well dear friend.
Suzanne LaPorte Voeks - West Bend , Wi
I am so saddened to hear of Diane’s passing. She was the sweet classmate of ‘66. My condolences to her family.
Liz Deneau - Gladstone , MI
I am stunned and grief stricken to hear of Diane’s passing. I had the pleasure of knowing her throughout our teaching careers. We shared many heartfelt laughs and treasured memories. Her obituary is a great testament to the wonderful person she was. I will remember her. I send love
Robert Blalock and family - Escanaba, MI
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
A. Sullivan - Escanaba , Mi
The class of 1966 sends our deepest condolences, to the Wickham family.
Pete Brock - Rapid River and Zephyrhills , FL
Bill, I was absolutely stunned to read about Diane. My condolences go out to you and your family. Things in life happen so quickly. You and your family will be added to my prayer list.
Linda D. McDonough - Boulder Junction, Wis., Wi
Sorry to have heard of Diane’s passing. We graduated together Class of 1966. My prayers and condolences to her family.
Diane Davis - LIVONIA, MI
I am so very saddened to learn of Diane’s death. We grew up together starting at Webster school and graduated together with our class of 1966. My condolences to her family.
Diane (Alm) Davis
Livonia, MI
Karen anderson - Gladstone, Mi
I am heartbroken to lose my cousin so suddenly. She was so kindhearted and lovely. We had so many more lunches and laughs to have about our younger years! I will miss you forever❤️ your favorite cous karen
Betty J pearson - Escanaba , Mi
Sorry, my sympathy to the family.
I remember Daine&Barb in the front pews At the Baptist Church. With their Easter bonnet on in the 1950’s..God bless Betty J.Olson Pearson