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Vernon Wicker Obituary
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Vernon graduated from Biola University with a BA in Music Education in 1961 followed by a Masters in Vocal Performance at Indiana University in 1964. Building on a successful performance career in the United States and Europe, Vernon received his Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Oregon in 1979. He proceeded to take a teaching position at Seattle Pacific University which he held for 25 plus years until his retirement, making scholarly contributions to the field of music history and church music.
Vernon is survived by his wife Jutta, whom he married on December 27, 1965. Additionally, he is survived by his daughter Esther Peterson, daughter Ruth Wicker, daughter Lydia Koerber, son Thomas Wicker, eleven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Dr. Vernon Wicker will be remembered for his performing and teaching career. He had an adventurous spirit, strong work ethic, and a commitment to use his vocal gift as a baritone to God's glory. His ready smile made others feel welcome, and his excellent sense of situational humor made even the most mundane moments brighter. He was a loving husband, father, grand - and great-grandfather.
The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or gifts please consider donating to Guide Dogs for the Blind San Rafael, CA or Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help
Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes-Downtown Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Richard Rice (SPU 1984)
December 27, 2024
One of the finest gentlemen I have ever known, Dr. Wicker was a patient and caring teacher who instilled the love of music in many, always with good humor. He never forgot his students and often sought them out in later years. I will miss his ready friendship.
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Leslie Martin
November 4, 2024
Vernon and Jutta, we have been friends ever since we were students together at the University of Oregon. The road of life later led Vernon and me to be faculty members at Seattle Pacific University. I hold especially dear the times that we discussed Johann Sebastian Bach the man, and the profundity and meaning of his music. Just as Bach lived a pious and productive life serving both God and humanity through his music, so, also did you, my friend. Each time I hear and play this chorale I will think fondly of you and offer it as a testament to the life that you lived here on earth:
1. Vor deinen thron tret' ich hiermit,
O Gott! und dich demüthig bitt',
Wend' dein genädig angesicht
Von mir, dem armen sünder, nicht.
2. Du hast mich, o Gott Vater mild!
Gemacht nach deinem ebenbild,
In dir web', schweb' und lebe ich,
Vergehen müßt' ich ohne dich.
15. Ein selig's ende mir bescher',
Am jüngsten tag erweck' mich, Herr!
Daß ich dich schaue ewiglich.
Amen, Amen, erhöre mich.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Leslie Martin
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