Jean Dickinson

Jean M. Dickinson (Martin), beloved daughter of Frohnie Martin (Schmallenberg) and Arthur Martin, was born on March 22, 1936, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. She peacefully passed away in her sleep on May 25, 2023, at the age of 87, at Serenity House in Denver, Colorado. Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband, Paul E. Dickinson.

Jean is survived by her two sons, Martin P. Dickinson and his wife, Susan L. Dickinson, along with their children, grandson Douglas and granddaughter Jessica. She is also survived by her son Joseph F. Dickinson, his wife Lucy Dickinson, and their children, grandson Cameron and granddaughter Ada.

Jean's early education took place at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. She graduated from Oshkosh West High School and went on to pursue her passion for history, earning an undergraduate degree in history. She continued her education at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where she obtained a master's degree in social work. During her time at the university, Jean was an active member of the college orchestra, showcasing her talent as a violinist.

As the middle child among four brothers, Robert, Leonard, Tommy, and Larry, and sister Geraldine, Jean developed a resilient and determined spirit to keep up with her siblings. At the age of 29, she married Paul E. Dickinson and embarked on a life journey filled with love and adventure.

Before starting a family, Jean dedicated herself to making a positive impact as a social worker for troubled youth in Cranford, New Jersey. When Marty was 8, she and her husband became co-owners and operators of three small weekly newspapers in Trumansburg, New York. Their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to their community shone through their work.

The Dickinson family's journey led them to Danbury, Connecticut, where Jean served as an executive assistant at Union Carbide. At age 46, she gave birth to Joe. After moving to Rolling Meadows, Illinois, she later worked at a regional bank in Des Plaines, Illinois, utilizing her skills and professionalism to contribute to the executives she organized.

Beyond her professional and family endeavors, Jean could always be found reading a book.  She cherished her church roles as a church choir singer, bible study leader, Stephen Minister, and serving on various leadership committees. She rarely missed a church service, finding solace and strength in her faith.

In retirement, Jean was heavily involved in helping to raise her four grandchildren and volunteering at the Friends of the Library Bookstore in Aurora, Colorado. She met everyone with a smile and was an expert conversationalist who was always willing to just listen.

Friends and family are invited to gather for Jean's funeral on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home located at 3201 S. Parker Road, Aurora, CO 80014 (Parker & Dartmouth), at 1:30 p.m. Pastor Michael Hiller will conduct the service. A burial service will take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

In honor of Jean's memory, and her support for education, donations can be made to Peace with Christ Christian School, 3290 S. Tower Road, Aurora, CO 80013

Jean M. Dickinson will be remembered as a compassionate friend to many, a dedicated businesswoman, a devoted mother and grandmother, and a faithful servant of her church community. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering commitment to her loved ones and her faith will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.