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FARMDALE -- Vilhelmine Evi Hickman, 83, of Farmdale, beloved mother of two children, Sonya Penn Merten and David E. Penn Jr., peacefully passed away on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, in Boardman, after a three-year journey valiantly and gracefully battling dementia.
Vilhelmine, known to her family and friends as Wilma, was born on Nov. 21, 1942, in Riga, Latvia, to Teodorija and Jekabs Lescovs.
Wilma grew up in post-war Germany, often enduring difficult times that would mold her into the strong, confident and wonderful person that everyone knew and cherished. In 1964, she fell in love and moved to the United States and quickly put her vocational schooling to good use by becoming a licensed beautician while teaching herself how to read, write and speak English. Throughout her life, she worked hard at various jobs, which ultimately led her to General Motors, Lordstown, where she retired in 2006. In her free time, Wilma enjoyed polka dancing and playing cards, especially euchre with her local group of friends.
Wilma was a devoted mother to Sonya and David; both were her pride and joy. She often said that her children changed her life for the better and, in return, they always felt her love and constant support. During Wilma's life, through the ups and the downs, she consistently provided endless joy, love, encouragement, guidance and strength to her children and her memory will be forever etched in the hearts of her family and all that were close to her.
Wilma was preceded in death by her daughter, Sonya Penn Merten; her brother, Viktors Virbickis; and her sister, Mirdza Lescovs.
She is survived by her brother, Manfred Lesvovs of Germany; her son, David E. (Shannan) Penn Jr.; her granddaughter, Lauren Penn; her grandson, Jacob Penn; and her granddaughter, Avrielle Merten, who will never forget the beautiful person that she was and the happiness that she brought into their lives.
A private service will be held for the immediate family. Burial of her cremated remains will take place in Corner House Christian Church Cemetery in Hubbard.
Baumgardner Funeral and Cremation Service, Kinsman, handled arrangements. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.baumgardnerfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Dementia Society of America at www.dementiasociety.org.
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