David Hickman

Fiercely loved son and brother. Loyal friend. Passionate artist. On October 2, 2021, David “Soler” Hickman left a void in the lives of everyone who met him. David was known for his larger-than-life spirit and incredible talent. His smile would light up any room and you couldn’t be in a room with David and not laugh, or be highly annoyed, or both (you couldn't ignore or miss him if you were in the same room with him).

After his sudden passing, common remarks about this extraordinary young man included “He was a star that lit up the room every time he walked in. He was such a kind, talented, bright light. He was always positive and happy. His smile was the best. His smile would light up any room. He was the life of the party. He was an amazing soul. He was absolutely incredible. He was an amazing and talented man. One of a kind. Such a blessing to have had in my life. Such an inspiration.”

David was born in Colorado on August 5, 1988, and loved to ski, backpack and rock climb in our beautiful Rocky Mountains. When he wasn’t painting, he loved nothing more than to spend time with his friends and family (especially if food or music was involved). He completed his BFA at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and his passion and dedication to his craft is evident in his art. His job as a driver for UPS allowed him to expand his circle of friends and continue to pursue his art while keeping a roof over his head!

He is survived by, and immensely missed by, his mother Shirley Potenza, his stepfather Joseph Potenza, his father Kenneth Hickman, his stepmother Cathy Hickman, his brother Daniel J. Potenza, his sister Katrina Gelinas, his grandfather Daniel A. Potenza, his grandmother Elzira Potenza. He is also survived and missed by many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and many, many friends. He was welcomed into heaven by his loving grandparents who predeceased him, Earsel and Hisako “Linda” Sole, William and Inell Harvey, and Kenneth E. and Marie Hickman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 15, 2021 at Horan & McConaty, 1091 S Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80246. The visitation will begin at 11:00 and a Celebration of his Life will begin at noon. A gravesite burial will begin at 2:00 at Fairmount Cemetery, 430 S. Quebec St., Denver, CO 80247 with a reception to follow in the Fairmount's Quebec Place.

If you are lucky enough to own his art, and if you are able, his family would love to have as much of his art on display at his Celebration of Life and/or Reception.

In lieu of flowers, donation’s can be made to The Matthew Shepherd Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.