Photo courtesy of The Wilton Mortuary
Peoria, Illinois
Dec 26, 1978 – Jul 4, 2014 (Age 35)
PEORIA – Nichole, "Nicki", Lynn Hickman, 35, of Peoria passed away at 5:48 AM on Friday, July 4, 2014 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Nicki was born on December 26, 1978 in Peoria. God brought this special "angel" into the lives of Allen "George" Hickman and Joan (Cerame) Hickman in 1980 at the age of 18 months and they adopted Nicki in 1981. This 4th of July truly became your "Independence Day", Nicki! It's the day you entered heaven's gates and were able to walk, run, talk, play, sing and gave that beautiful smile of yours to Jesus! We know you truly became an angel and God has given you your wings! Nicki attended Schramm Educational Center from 1982 through 2000. She also attended an Adult Day Program at Peoria EP!C (formerly known as PARC) from 2001 until June of 2014. Nicki had many friends at both Schramm and at EP!C/PARC. Nicki recently participated in a video for EP!C called "Happy," which accurately described Nicki's sweet attitude toward life. While life for Nicki was not easy, she was happy most of the time. She loved to laugh and smile which brought much happiness to those who loved her. Nicki also attended St. Thomas Catholic Church in Peoria Heights. Nicki leaves behind her loving parents, Allen "George" Hickman and Joan (Cerame) Hickman, both of Peoria, several aunts and uncles, and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents, an aunt, and an uncle. Funeral will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 904 E. Lake Ave., on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at 3:00 PM, Monsignor William A. Watson will officiate. Visitation will be held at The Wilton Mortuary, 2101 N. Knoxville, Peoria, IL 61603, on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 from 5 to 7 PM Visitation will also be held one hour before Funeral Services on Wednesday, July 9. Entombment will take place at American Mausoleum in Peoria. Memorial Contributions may be made to Peoria EP!C/PARC or Shriners Hospitals for Children
George/Joan Very sorry to read of Nickie's passing. I am grateful to have met her and I was always impressed by how both of you provided such a loving house for her. Please accept our condolences. Byron/Deb Yang
July 09, 2014
Dear Joan and George,
I am so saddened by Nikki's passing but so happy she had so much love in her life from both of you. I feel blessed to have known and worked with her, she was so sweet and happy.
Judy Ganion PTA
July 09, 2014 | FL
Just heard, sorry for the loss.
John Botorf
July 08, 2014 | Portland
Truly she was a angel here on earth and she fought the battle here on earth and she won her wings in heaven. Praying for your family.
Connie Sawatzki
July 08, 2014 | Peoria, IL
I will always remember the joy Nicki shared at mass. My heart is sadden by the reality of your loss. Our angels on earth bring us and God such joy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Camp
July 08, 2014 | Peoria, IL
sorry to hear of her passing my wife marcia work with her at epic sne always use come to reading class like them very much our loss is heavens gain
robert ellis
July 07, 2014 | Peoria, IL
George and Joan - I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll keep you in my prayers.
Mary Weakley
July 07, 2014 | Peoria, IL
Dear Hickmans,
I remember you from fostercare meetings when Nicki came into your lives. I can remember how happy you both were to become her parents. What a blessing you were to her, and she to you! My heart breaks for you.
Celebrate knowing you gave Nicki every opportunity to have a great life!
Jane Pretty
Jane Pretty
July 07, 2014 | Port Orchard, WA
Nicki is now flying with the Angels
Dear George and Joan, I am so proud of the two of you of how you said yes to God through your loving & caring for Nichole. I am having a Mass prayed by the Community of Saint John for Nicki and for you two. I know that Nicki is now resting in the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary - GOD BLESS YOU - Terry
Terry Davis
July 07, 2014 | Peoria, IL
