We are sad to share that Jeff Hicken, Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Education Consultant and State FFA Advisor at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has passed.
After numerous medical complications over the past few weeks, he passed Friday morning just after his transfer to the UW Hospital.
UPDATE: A Celebration of Jeff’s life will be on Saturday, June 26, 2021. The visitation for the public will begin at 10:00 am with a special Memorial Service led by Pastor Gwen Loomans at 2:00 pm at the Waupun Area Junior/Senior High School, 801 East Lincoln Street in Waupun. Following the service there will be additional visitation time from 3:00 – 5:00 pm.
Hicken has served in his role with the Wisconsin FFA and Department of Public Instruction for just over 15 years. Through his time with the organization, he has worked closely with other state staff and state officers each year to serve Wisconsin’s agriculture educators and FFA members across the state. Along with his position at DPI, he has served in numerous roles at the national level as well, including serving as a member of the National FFA Board.
Prior to joining the Department of Public Instruction, Hicken was always very active in the FFA and agriculture education. He was a member of the Lomira FFA chapter and served with the state FFA team as State Sentinel in 1992-93. After his year of service, he went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, earning a degree in agricultural education. Upon graduation, he became the agriculture instructor at Sauk Prairie High School, where he taught from 1998 to 2006.
He is survived by his wife Sheri and his two sons, Cole and Drew. Cole recently graduated from Waupun High School and has been awarded a State FFA Proficiency Award In Landscape Management.
The entire staff of the Midwest Farm Report Network are rocked by the loss of this mentor and friend. Rest in Peace “Hick”.
Robbi says
Prayers for Sherri, Cole, and Drew.
Marion Fletcher says
Praying for his family. Great man who loved FFA and Agricultural Education
bmyers says
Mr. Hicken was a great man. I got to know him when we served on the National FFA Organization Board of Directors together. His dedication to agricultural education is second to none. But most importantly, he was a great man. Solid in every way. What a great loss. My deepest condolences to his family.
Cathy Stowers says
My deepest sympathies! I worked with Jeff in the Sauk Prairie school district. His dedication to his students and leadership qualities were a living legacy to his total life long commitment to preserving our environment. He will be missed and never forgotten! Cathy Stowers
Dick and Linda Aide says
Our deepest sympathy to Sheri and the boys. God hold you all in his loving arms. Sincerely Dick and Linda Aide
Bill Johnson says
Very sad news, Hick loved young people and agriculture, he more than filled the big shoes of his predecessors. My sympathies to family and the Wisconsin FFA
James and Jody Drews says
So sorry to read this! May God be with you all at this difficult time! Prayers and hugs sent to ALL!
James Gibson says
I am sorry to learn of Jeff’s death. I enjoyed working with him before and following his assignment at the state level. An enthusiastic and dedicated teacher and leader in his field.
Fritz & Ginny says
Dear Sheri, Cole & Drew–
What a legacy your husband/father left. We both worked with Jeff while he served as Ag instructor at Sauk Prairie. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him for his passion and integrity. With our prayers for your family.
Reynold Gardner says
What a loss. Jeff has provided so much support for everybody he came into contact with. I am an Educator from Oregon and I have enjoyed many conversations with Jeff. What a GIANT within the Agriculture Education / FFA community, many individuals have been provided relief from the heat of the day in the legendary shadow that Jeff has casted.
Jennifer Setzke says
Very shocking sad news. Sheri, Cole and Drew and family you have my deepest sympathies. He will be greatly missed.
Sincerely
Jennifer Setzke
Lisa Chaudion, Indiana FFA Foundation says
Our deepest and sincerest sympathy to Sheri, Cole and Drew. He was a great leader and friend to the FFA and to all that knew him. Sending our Prayers to you and the entire Wisconsin FFA and Ag Ed family.
Judy Renderman says
Prayers at this most difficult time to the family . . I was so honored to write recommendations for Jeff on several occasions as his 4-H leader. A great loss to the agricultural community. Prayers to all 🙏✝️🙏
Barb mccann says
I just heard he was a special person whom touched the heart and soul of many people. All my prayers for his family, friends, and the FFA family. He will be missed by all.
Debbie Kolins [DJ] says
I just heard about Jeff’s passing. I am so very sorry to hear this. My deepest condolences and prayers for Sheri, Cole and Drew. I met Jeff through his wife Sheri. Jeff will be greatly missed. RIP Jeff