Jonathan Paul Hickman's Obituary
Jonathan Paul Hickman, a cherished husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 37. Born on September 21, 1987, in Ravenna, Ohio, Jonathan's life was one marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering spirit of generosity.
Jonathan spent his final moments in Youngstown, Ohio, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his beloved wife, soulmate and honey pie, Marissa Hickman, and their two sons, Henry James and Elwood Paul, who were the center of his world. His parents, Rich Hickman and Michelle Doherty, his sisters, Nicole Shover (Bobby) and Mariah Miller (Ricky), his adoring nephews R.J. and Easton, and his loving aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins will forever cherish the memories they created together.
Jonathan was a man of many talents and interests. His career as a steelworker was a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to his fellow union members. His involvement with the United Steelworkers Union reflected his dedication to his colleagues and the community. Jonathan fundamentally believed that unions are critical to creating a more equitable and just America. Outside of work, Jonathan was a hobby machinist, a lover of all music, and a skilled bass guitar player. His passion for working on cars showcased his handy and selfless nature, always ready to lend a hand or share his knowledge with others.
Jonathan's generosity extended beyond his mechanical skills. He was a great mechanic, but even more so, he was a great storyteller. His love for conversation was only surpassed by his love for his family, especially his two boys. He was an amazing husband, father, and son, always putting the needs of his loved ones before his own. Although brief, Jonathan treasured his time as a stay-at-home dad after Elwood was born. He was a superhero in the eyes of his sons as he taught and modeled skills that will live on as they grow.
His interests were as varied as they were deep. Whether he was tuning up a car or slapping his bass guitar, Jonathan approached everything with a sense of joy and enthusiasm. His selflessness was evident in every aspect of his life, from how he cared for his family to how he supported his friends and union brothers and sisters.
Jonathan's life was one of impact and meaning. Those who knew him will remember him as a man who was not only handy and generous, but also deeply selfless. He was often quick to share his strong, sometimes contentious and thought-provoking viewpoints. Jonathan loved a good debate! His heart was always open, his hand was always extended, and his smile lit up a room. His presence was a gift to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Margaret Hickman and Ruth Laughery, and his uncle, John Ashcraft, who have now welcomed him with open arms. Jonathan's memory will live on in the hearts of his family, including his in-laws Tom and Mickey Humphrey, brother-in-law Joel Humphrey, and sister-in-law Kellie (Humphrey) Gualtieri. His aunts Rhonda Duggins (Dwight), Reva Holloran (Tim), Linda DeSalvo (Jack), Rita Light (Jim), and uncles Bill Hickman (Irene) and Joe Hickman (Judy) will also miss his presence.
Jonathan's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, commitment, and service to others. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take solace in the knowledge that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Jonathan's story is not one of an ending, but a lasting (and very large!) footprint that will be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to be part of his journey. In the spirit of Jonathan's rich legacy and sense of humanity his body became a gift to others in need so that they might live.
Family and friends may gather for visitation on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Green Funeral Care, 4668 Pioneer Trail (at the corner of St. Rt. 44), Mantua, from 4-8 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to LifeBanc or the Portage County APL.
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