David C. Wickersham

On June 18, 2022, Dave Wickersham did something he always talked about doing.  He made it to Heaven, after anticipating the journey for years.  Today he celebrates with his Savior, his wife Carol Sue Wickersham, and all who have gone home before him.

Dave was born to Clifford and Ella Wickersham in 1935. He was raised on an orchard in East Springfield, Pennsylvania, where apples hung from trees like little red baseballs.  The perfect place for the future MLB pitcher to take root.

Wickersham attended West Springfield High School, Taylor University and graduated from Ohio University in 1957.  He was signed by Branch Rickey in 1955, and went on to play for the Kansas City A’s, Pittsburgh Pirates, Detroit Tigers and pitched in the Kansas City Royals inaugural game.

Dave married Carol Sue Larson in 1964.  He was a loving father to Davey, Carey, Mandy and Matthew, and exuberant grandfather to Jesse, Lily, Luke, Abby, Cody, Daniel, Jacob, Benjamin and Rachel. He is survived by his brother Phil Wickersham.

After he retired from baseball, Wickersham worked as a life insurance agent for Equitable Life Assurance Society.  He attended Cross Points Church in Lenexa, Ks.

A man of strong faith, Wickersham often traveled around the region sharing his testimony with church groups.  He also worked closely with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Kansas City and coached youth baseball teams for his sons.

Dave was a good story-teller, known for his big smile, loud singing, bone-crushing hugs, and back-slapping “God bless yous”.  He loved Jesus, his family, his church and baseball.

Visitation on Monday, June 27th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Westside Family Church.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 28th at Westside family Church.  Burial at Pleasant View Cemetery in Shawnee, KS.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to:

Good Dads

​​205 West Walnut Street Suite 10

Springfield, MO  65806

OR

Cross Points Church

6824 Lackman Rd.

Shawnee, KS 66217