Monday, May 18, 2009

Our Sympathies

We extend our deepest sympathies to Linda, Erica, & Greg, and the rest of the family. We had a bit in common in that we lived in Rockford our entire lives until we moved into Ann Arbor in 1959. We met the Wicks early on as we live down Manchester Rd. from them. Both Loyd & I represented firms in Rockford. Marge has worked with both of them at the polls, & plays bridge with Fran monthly. We have so enjoyed knowing the family these many years.
Our deepest regards to you all.
Bob & Marge Lawson.

A Great Role Model

Linda:

Barry was a wonderful man, he brought joy to everyone around him and he always seemed to be available when people needed a hand. I first met Barry when I was a student at Greenhills, but I really didn’t get to know him until I started working at the Racquet Club. Barry was a several years older than me and gladly took the time to befriend me and the other students working at the Club. I had the good fortune to watch him transition from being single; to engaged; to husband; and to father. I was able to see and hear about what becoming a responsible adult was all about, before I had to do it myself. Several years later as I faced the same transitions I looked at Barry and it was comforting to see that while the transitions bring big changes in priorities, they don’t have to change who you are, they allow you to grow. Barry was a great role model. I am lucky to have known him and called him friend.

Alex Thorne

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Barry IS a Wonderful Man

Linda-
 
 Barry worked with my husband but I got to know him through the Mission Possible golf outing that I organized and Barry played in the last two years. He was always so complementary and a genuine wonderful man.  But as I was telling my son about Barry's loss to cancer and asked if he remembered Barry (as they met him at Nustep and the golf outing)  he said to me " I remember his Eagle on the hole by the club house two years ago- that was awesome that we got to be there and see it."   That is so true, Barry was so happy and we all hollered and hooted- you would have thought he had a hole in one!  Your loss is great and I know that your memories are what will get you through this.  You and your family are in our prayers and I know that Jim will surely miss Barry.
 
Heidi Steinhebel

Thinking of you...

Dear Linda and family,
I have thought of you often lately and want you to know that my heart really goes out to you all. While I didn't know Barry too well, I feel like I did through stories from my parents, Kevin, Laurie, Joe, and Ali. I know that Barry was a special brother, uncle, and friend to all. My only memories of Barry include him smiling and genuinely enjoying life! From my experience, anyone with the last name of Wicks is a very special person, and Barry was no exception! I am so sorry to have missed the Celebration of Life today. I will continue to pray for your entire family during this tough time. Hugs to all of you!
Love,
Alicia (Holtz) Tropea and family

Friday, May 15, 2009

We miss him at work

I had worked with Barry for over 4 years.  He fought a good fight.  I will remember him for his invaluable advice and humor on everything from wedding plans to how to best navigate around Ann Arbor.  He put up with us ladies, and even pretended to care about new purses and pedicures.  Our golf league started this week, and I can't tell you how much we all missed him.  He was always the first one to the tee box, even when he was just there to cheer us on and get some fresh air.
 
Today, in his memory, we purchased a flowering crabapple tree to plant infront of the pond.  Barry called it the best view in Ann Arbor.  We will soon landscape the area, and hope that Linda, Greg, and Erica will visit.
 
I hope you know that he meant so much to us at NuStep. 
 
Rachel Smith, NuStep Inc.

A Memorial

Our Memories of Barry Wicks
This is extremely difficult to do but it comes with love and admiration for your life wherever we met you.
Though our paths crossed years ago - where they met is remembered by us and our family as precious. Especially memorable are the Christmas and New Year times our families celebrated together. God has been good to all of us and surrounded us with wonderful children and much love.
You are leading us into the future with much grace and we thank you for that.  May our loving Father guide you as you explore this new world.  Blessings to you from every member of the Wilson family.

Hugh, Adele, Robin, Catherine, Graham & Jennifer.

Barry

Linda,
 
I first met Barry while I was a student at Greenhills.  All I remember is Barry with a beard, usually vacuuming the carpet. 
Barry was always ready for an adventure, whether a drive to see the Kentucky Derby or climbing to the top of Mount Ranier. 
I guess I am the one responsible for introducing you to Barry.  At the time, we hoped the two of you would get along.  We didn't realize how the sparks would fly.
Barry became a devoted family man and was so proud of Greg and Erica.
I will always remember his fun spirit.  And if I ever had a question about anything sports-related, he would know the answer.
We have known each other for almost 40 years.  I will always be here for you.
 
Love, Barbie