Lynette Hickman, 75, of Surprise, Arizona, formerly of North Platte, passed away Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, surrounded by her children. Lynette leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and quiet acts of kindness that touched countless lives.
Lynette was born on May 6, 1950, in Plainview, Nebraska, to LeRoy “Pete” and Norman (Johnson) Pittack. She graduated from Plainview High School in 1968 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Kearney State College in 1972. It was there that she met her future husband, Jerry Hickman. On June 17, 1972, they were united in marriage and began a lifelong partnership grounded in faith, humor, and devotion—a bond that endured for more than 40 years until Jerry’s passing in 2013.
After moving to North Platte, Lynette opened her own daycare. She later joined North Platte Public Schools, initially serving as a substitute teacher and then as secretary at Osgood Elementary School. Before retiring, she worked for more than two decades at the law office of Wayne E. Griffin.
Above all, Lynette was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. She treasured her children—Shawn, Heather, and Justin—and found immense joy in her grandchildren: Alaina, Ryan, Mia, and Kaleb. Her family was her heart, and she expressed her love in countless thoughtful ways. Lynette never missed a birthday, anniversary, or milestone, faithfully sending cards that made her loved ones feel remembered and celebrated.
Her passions reflected her creative and joyful spirit. She enjoyed sewing, scrapbooking, knitting, playing the piano, traveling, and gathering around the table to play cards with friends and family. Lynette was also a proud and active member of Beta Sigma Phi, Xi Alpha Sigma chapter, where she held many roles including treasurer, secretary, and president.
Lynette’s memory will be forever cherished by those who loved her. As her family says goodbye, they hold close the countless ways she brightened their lives—through her creativity, generosity, and unwavering love.
She is survived by her sons, Shawn (Leanna) and Justin Hickman; daughter, Heather (Shane) Kirk; grandchildren, Alaina and Mia Hickman, and Ryan and Kaleb Kirk; sisters-in-law Kim Hickman and Connie Skarka; brother-in-law Ron Skarka; nieces and nephews; aunt Sheralyn “Toots” Johnson; and many cousins.
Lynette is preceded in death by her husband Jerry; brother Jerry; parents; in-laws Chester and Evelyn Hickman; brother-in-law Robert Hickman; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church with the Rev. Robert Deardoff officiating. Burial will follow at Floral Lawns Memorial Garden.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which is handling arrangements.
Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.
Online condolences and streaming of the service can be found at carpentermemorial.com.
https://northplattebulletin.com/lynette-hickman-75-surprise-ariz-formally-north-platte/
