Leland R. Wickham

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Leland R. Wickham, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather and proud World War II veteran, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on June 23, 2025, at the age of 98.

Born on June 7, 1927, in Zanesville, Ohio, the son of the late James and Hattie Wickham, Leland grew up during the Great Depression and answered the call to serve his country in World War II. A member of the U.S. Navy, he served on the USS Marias, traveling around the world twice, with honor and distinction. His experiences during the war shaped a lifetime of resilience, humility, and compassion.

After returning home, Leland built a life defined by hard work, integrity, and love for his family. He married the love of his life, Thelma Barker-Wickham, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years together. Together they raised two daughters, Mary and Kathy, and built a legacy grounded in kindness and faith.

Leland was known for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and the stories he told—always filled with humor and heart. Whether traveling the country, mentoring his many grandkids, or reflecting on the lessons of life, he touched everyone he met with quiet strength and enduring grace. He had many jobs over the years, retiring from McGraw Edison as a machinist. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, working in his wood shop building toys and treasures for his family and grandchildren, and pursuing a lifelong love for music.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary (Stephen) Miller and Kathy Weekley, grandchildren Melissa (Donald) Faulhaber, Holly Richardson, Andrew Richardson, Kevin (Melinda) Weekley, April (Rex) Cottrell, and Kacey (Michelle) Weekley, 14 great-grandchildren, and many great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife Thelma Barker-Wickham, he is preceded in death by his three brothers, Ralph, Jack, and John; four sisters, Florence, Hazel, Phoebe, and Lucy Wickham; and two sons-in-law, John Richardson and Jon Weekley.

A celebration honoring Leland’s 98 years of life will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025 from 11:00 A.M until time of service starting at 1:00 P.M. at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE. Leland will then be laid to rest at Rose Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Shriver’s Hospice Foundation at 2052 E Pike, Zanesville, OH 43701.

The family would also like to send their deepest gratitude to Brookdale Zanesville and Shriver’s Hospice Foundation.

We will miss his steady presence and his wisdom, but we are grateful for the long and meaningful life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.

To send a note of condolence, order flowers, or comfort food please: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneral.com , follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at 740-452-4551.