Wick

John L. Wick, M.D., a beloved physician and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, in Butler.

Born on Sept. 24, 1937, in Butler, he was the son of the late Dwight L. and Dora S. (Gardner) Wick. John’s life was marked by dedication to his profession and family.

John graduated from Butler High School in 1955 and pursued higher education at Grove City College, graduating in 1959. John earned his medical degree from Temple Medical School in 1963. Following his graduation, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1965, stationed on Chichijima in the Bonin Islands, Japan. As the sole physician on the island, he fondly remember these years as some of the best of his life. It was on Chichijima that he met Elsie, his wife of 59 years.

Upon returning to Butler in 1965, John specialized in ophthalmology, becoming a trusted eye doctor in the community. He opened his practice on East Cunningham Street in 1973, where he served his many patients with dedication and care.

John was a man of diverse interests. An avid ham radio operator, he enjoyed countless hours conversing with other “hams” in Butler, as well as on the other side of the Earth. He was a prolific gardener, known for his bountiful harvests, particularly his tomatoes. As an amateur pilot, he enjoyed flying his Piper Cherokee to the annual air show in Oshkosh, Wis. Until his health prevented it, he was a reliable provider of nourishment to the birds, squirrels and deer that frequented his backyard, as well as several stray cats over the years — several of whom moved in and found a loving home.

John is survived by his wife, Elsie Mayumi (Savory) Wick. He leaves behind his two children, Candace Wick (Peter) Cari of Arlington, Va., and Travis J. Wick of Butler; his grandson, Henry W. Cari of Arlington, Va.; his sister, Norma Cooper of Butler; his sister-in-law, Pearl Wick of Cortland, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis Wick; and brother-in-law, Ron Cooper.

Dr. Wick's legacy of compassion and service will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

WICK — Friends and family of Dr. John L. Wick, who died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, will be received from 1 p.m. until the time of service at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18, at YOUNG FUNERAL HOME, 127 W. Jefferson St., Butler, with the Rev. Jim Lewis officiating.

Burial and military honors will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at West Sunbury Union Cemetery.

For more information, go to www.youngfuneralhomes.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.