Fred Wicknick, always engaging and with a twinkle in his eye, navigated life with a heart larger than his stature. He endeavored to create meaningful connections with everyone he met, and had an uncanny ability to remember the names, faces, and stories of those who crossed his path, even years after introduction.

To many, he was Dr. Wicknick, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who, along with his capable and caring staff (aka “the ladies”), provided excellent oral surgery care for 35 years.  As for his education, Fred graduated from Linfield College majoring in philosophy and biology. He attended dental school at Oregon Health Sciences University and completed his oral maxillofacial surgery residency at the University of Louisville.

On a personal level, Fred was innately curious and a voracious reader, especially historical nonfiction.  Approachable and known for his teaching abilities, Fred was able to take difficult content and break it down into understandable concepts, making him an essential resource and our very own” WICKipedia” on practically any topic.

Noted for his “selfless” way of being in the world, Fred perfectly embodied the worn and tattered quote he kept in his wallet, like his father before him, that stated, “service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

Fred’s lifelong passions included skiing, boating, hunting, eating, reading, listening to music and spending time with family and friends. He had an enthusiasm for scotch and home-made desserts, and his love language was an Old Fashioned after a day of outdoor adventure with Roffe the Wonder Dog.

On June 14, 2024, our beloved skipper, and captain of our family, passed away unexpectedly. Our loss has been soothed by knowing that Fred lived by a friend group motto, “quality time remaining” (QTR) – going at full tilt in recent years since retiring in 2018.

Fred is survived by Anne, his wife of 39 years, son Connor (Alexandra Owen), daughter Alyssa (Cheyne Hayes), Mother Agnes and sister Ann Williamson (Jon Schweiss). Fred’s presence in our lives has been a humble testament to God’s generosity, and we take comfort in knowing he is at peace.

In honor of our beloved son, brother, husband, and father, on Friday, July 19th, there will be a memorial service at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (Bellingham) at 11:00 a.m., followed by an open house Celebration of Life from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., at the Squalicum Boathouse in Zuanich Park (Bellingham).