On 10/11/2025, our dear friend Wendy and her beautiful family lost the pillar of their family, Jeff Hickey. You undoubtedly have met Jeff either relaxing in front of his favorite local Starbucks or cruising around town in one of his beloved cars. No matter where you ran into him, he was always smiling, even if he didn’t always hear you saying hello :)

Jeff retired after 46 dedicated years at PG&E and finally moved to our beautiful community to be closer to his family. He bought the home of his dreams just a street over from his daughter, Wendy, and leaned into the retired life. He got to spend his days with family. Huge family meals with his daughters, all 13 grandkids, and of course the ever growing list of great grandkids. Jeff grew close with so many in our community too. I know he brightened the day of all the baristas when he’d come through that door.

He was a gentle man with a heart of gold. He worked hard his whole life to build the life he always wanted and spent every second sharing it with those he loved.

On 10/09/25, his home tragically caught fire with him trapped inside. Without the bravery of his grandson, Ryan, he wouldn’t have received the care he did in his final moments. Ryan we all love you so much and you gifted your family the chance to say good bye. I know your grandfather was so relieved it was you that walked through flames to help him and I know without a doubt he is so immensely proud of you for doing it. We all are.

Unfortunately, Jeff succumbed to his injuries and left this earth on 10/11/2025.

The family is not only left with the gaping hole his absence leaves but with a tragically burned home as a terrible reminder of this pain. Photos, keepsakes, and beloved reminders of Jeff have also been lost in the fire. The family has a long road ahead as they sort through medical bills, fire and home insurance, and most importantly funeral and costs associated with honoring his life.

We hope you will consider donating. If not financially, please share this post so it reaches others.

You can also send donations directly to the family

Venmo: @taygunter

CashApp: $Wendy5454

EDITS for GoFundMe compliance:

I am a close friend to Wendy and the family, helping raise funds and manage the account to ease some of the burden. The gofundme funds will be transferred to Wendy on a weekly basis as they are received. Thank you everyone for your support.