James Owen Hickam (February 1, 1946 - August 22, 2025)

James Owen Hickam Obituary

James Owen Hickam, 79, of Osage Beach, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 22nd at St. Mary’s Hospital, Jefferson City, Missouri surrounded by his loving family.

He was born February 1, 1946, in Boonville, Missouri, to Owen Powell “Dutch” Hickam and Zola (Hamilton) Hickam. James grew up in Boonville and graduated from Boonville High School in 1964. On March 16, 1968, he married his beloved wife, Janet (Gerhardt), and together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage.

James (Jim) is survived by his wife Janet; his two children, Amy (Hickam) Van Buren (Chad) of Osage Beach and Chad Hickam of Tipton, Missouri; and three cherished grandchildren, Nick Van Buren of Nashville, Delaney Van Buren of Kansas City, Missouri, and Riley Hickam of Osage Beach, Missouri.

Jim was devoted to his family and especially enjoyed time with his grandchildren. He loved playing golf, boating, music, and studying history.

In 1966, Jim joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country for four years. He trained at the U.S. Hospital Corps School and the Field Medical Service School at Great Lakes, Illinois, as well as the Marine Corps Base at Camp Pendleton, California. Jim served in Vietnam from 1968–1969 with the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marines Division, attaining the rank of E-2. For his valor, he was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart Medal and Ribbon for wounds in combat, and the Gold Star on the Purple Heart Medal and Ribbon.

After his military service, Jim attended Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri, graduating in 1972 with honors. He went on to build a successful career with Ross Labs, a division of Abbott Laboratories, where he worked from 1972 until 2002. During his career, he served as a District Manager, also as Director of Sales Training in Columbus, Ohio, and also conducted International Training for Abbott Labs.

Jim's life was defined by service—to his family, his country, and his work. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his dedication, kindness, and love.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org) in honor of his service and sacrifice.

Friends will be received from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home Osage Beach. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am, with full military honors to follow the service. A private burial will be held at a later time.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514 Highway 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573) 348-3232.


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