Jim Wick Obituary

Jim Philip Wick

James Philip Wick, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Johns Island, South Carolina, Sunday, May 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, eight months after a diagnosis of glioblastoma. Born March 20, 1953, in Pasadena, California, Jim lived a rich life marked by deep love for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca Wick; and his children, Kimberly (Angella) Wick of Malden, Massachusetts, and Trevor (Kinsey) Wick of Houston, Texas; and his children through marriage, Robert "Spike" (Annie) Miller of Seattle, Washington, and Elizabeth (Mike) Coleman of Medfield, Massachusetts. Jim is also survived by his nephew, Jacob Quintieri, of La Verne, California.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marilyn Wick; and his sisters, Diane Quintieri and Joyce Wick.

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from California Polytechnic State University, where he met his college sweetheart, Cindy Brown. The relationship flourished over a shared love of musicals, live concerts, and DIY projects. Jim and Cindy went on to marry in 1976 and raised two extraordinary children, Kimberly and Trevor.

Throughout his life, Jim was the ultimate hands-on dad, from diaper changes to soccer coaching to homework help. He applied this same love, patience, and care in the approach he took to supporting Cindy through her journey with cancer and in supporting his children after Cindy's passing in 2005.

In his professional life, Jim worked as a chemist, dedicating 27 years to Marathon Petroleum Company in Findlay, Ohio, and later as R&D Manager in Catlettsburg, Kentucky.

In 2009, Jim found love again when Rebecca Monroe Miller entered his life. "Jibecca," as the duo was affectionately dubbed, was united by similar interests and hobbies, a shared outlook on life, and a deep, abiding love of WheatThins.

Upon retirement, Jim and Rebecca settled in Johns Island, South Carolina, where they took advantage of all the Lowcountry offers, beautiful scenery and wildlife, abundant opportunities to golf, delicious meals, and wonderful neighbors and friends.

Throughout his life, Jim gave generously of his time and talents. He volunteered with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, supporting local Johns Island residents in need with tax preparation services. He also served as president of the Board of Kiawah River Estates and as board member and treasurer for Charleston Stage - Dock Street Theatre, where his love of the performing arts found lasting expression.

Jim and Rebecca were fortunate to travel extensively in retirement. As highly compatible travel partners, they ventured to all corners of the globe-exploring Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and even both poles. Jim was the consummate travel agent, planning every detail with care.

Most of all, Jim was a devoted and proud grandfather, delighting in time spent with his five adorable grandsons-Cullen and Walker Wick, and Andy, Sam, and William Coleman. Whether swapping jokes, conducting science experiments, or engaging in legendary tickle battles, Papa Jim was positively adored; in the words of one grandson, Jim is, without a doubt, "the coolest dude I know."

A celebration of Jim's life will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Charleston Stage - The Dock Street Theatre or Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic.