Donald J Hickerson

Don J Hickerson was taken out by the six fingered man (or cancer complications, as you wish) on May 28, 2024 at St Mary’s Hospital in Duluth. He left this world surrounded by loved ones. He would tell you he was an ordinary person, but this obituary seeks to prove he was much more than that. Born in Minneapolis on January 15,1961 as the second son to Don Carl Hickerson and LaVonne Hickerson (Eischens), his early life was mostly happy, with one older sister and two younger siblings to learn and grow with. In teenage and early adulthood, he chose a path that markedly resembled all young people in the 70s before settling into the rigidity and structure of the military.

It was while stationed in California he met his first wife, Deborah Kay. They returned to Minnesota, got married and had two daughters, Katrina and Aleisha. It was around this time dad found his dream career path at Remmele Engineering in Big Lake MN. He forged a path for himself, working with some of the greatest minds (his words) in the field. His first marriage was not to be, and it was soon after a trip to a bluegrass concert would lead to him meeting his second wife, Kathy Karich. They shared over 22 years of amazing memories together - raising children, travel adventures, attending and finishing college on their own and the sweet moments between.

Don’s first cancer diagnosis came in 2015, along with further setbacks as his parents passed very close to one another, and a large career change. He started viewing life differently when faced with death, and decided to make changes that would end his second marriage, but bring about a new life partner, Malissa. They were inseparable, and through their relationship he changed into the person he wanted to be - the man who actively worked every day to live his remaining days to the fullest with someone who saw that same worldview.

Don was able to leave his career early, during arguably the most profitable time in his career, because he chose to live his life with those who are most important to him. Thanks to his generosity and love, those days were pure magic - watching his children find a way in the world, being with grandkids, activities with Malissa and her family, and spending time with his many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, LaVonne Hickerson (Eischens), Don Carl Hickerson, and his brother Scott Hickerson. He is survived by his siblings Charise Hickerson, Lisa Carroll, and Gregg Hickerson as well as his children Katrina Hickerson (Mike Stenz) and Aleisha Drahota (Andy Drahota).

His superpower was forming incredible interpersonal relationships and his unwavering patience. When faced with the decision of new levels of wealth or family, he said family was the easiest decision he ever made. He chose to live and fight his hardest to the very end. He will tell you he’s ordinary, but that intelligent, stubborn, kind of dorky man was anything but. He would want you to live a full life, whatever that means to you. Keep fighting your fight and keep moving forward!

Don’s celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 12th from 3-7pm at Aleisha’s house in Becker, MN. For details, please contact hickerson.trina@gmail.com.