Philip Thomas Wickey

Philip (Phil) Wickey, age 90 of Brighton (formerly from Grayling) Michigan, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

 

Phil was born on March 16, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, to Harry Lawson and Dorothy Wickey.  He graduated from Redford High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University.

 

Phil was married to Arlene Sparks on August 29, 1959, and continued working toward his degree while living in married housing at MSU.  After graduating, they continued living in southern Michigan while Phil began his career in sales.  He later became an entrepreneur, managing and owning various automotive and industrial cleaning businesses. Together they built a home filled with laughter, love, and support for their three children.

 

Phil was a hard-working provider and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He found happiness in spending time with family, friends, and neighbors in their Grayling home on the Manistee River.  They spent time kayaking down the river, snowmobiling in winter, and Phil found pleasure in challenging many avid racquetball players.

 

Phil is survived by his wife, Arlene; his children: Linda (Jon) Kabel, Brenda (Paul) Ogden, and Tom Wickey; six grandchildren: Matthew (Mary) Ogden, Robby (Kendall) Ogden, Joey Ogden, Carly (Ryan) Woolwine, Katie Kabel (Greg Starr), and Chelsey Wiese; and great grandchildren: Jacob Ogden, Aurora (Rory) Ogden, Cameron (Cam) Wiese, Cassius (Cash) Wiese, and Lilah Woolwine.  Phil was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

 

A celebration of life will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, March 14th, 2026, at Alive Family Church in Brighton, with a luncheon following the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church’s outreach ministry using the following link: Alive Family Church Memorial Donation.

 

 The family would like to thank the caregivers and friends who provided comfort and support during his final days.

 

Phil’s laughter, fun-loving spirit, twinkling blue eyes and smile will be remembered by all, and his love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.