Duane Robert Bickmire's Obituary
Duane Robert Bickmire
Lakeland – Mr. Duane Robert Bickmire, 75, died Aug. 13th at Lakeland Regional Health Center.
Born in Gowanda, New York, Mr. Bickmire was the son of the late Robert Bickmire and Marion Salyer. He graduated from Lakeland High School and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1961 and finished his service in 1965.
In 1967, Duane married Georgia Young and remained happily married for 51 years.
He began his career with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in 1973 as a deputy sheriff and was instrumental in implementing the first K9 Unit for the agency. Additionally, he held the only Arson Investigator position within a law enforcement agency for the county. He retired after 21 years of service in 2005.
Duane is a member of the First United Methodist Church in Lakeland.
Mr. Bickmire served as Worshipful Master of the Masonic Eastside Lodge 382. He was a member of the Florida Frontiersmen and participated annually in the Alafia River Rendezvous. He was the Founder of the Metis Peace River Band of Native American Indians and was later elected as Chief Duane “Spirit Wolf” Bickmire. He served the Ridge Woodcarvers Club as President.
He is survived by his loving wife, Georgia Bickmire; daughter, Beth Bickmire Ward (Steven) of Lakeland, daughter, Laura Bickmire Langer (Chris) of Lakeland; sister, Patricia Grimmer of Plant City; grandchildren, Nicholas Thompson, Kyle Thompson, Chelsea O’Quinn, Ryan Zimmermaker and Ashley Zimmermaker.
A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church Chapel in Lakeland on Fri. Aug. 17th at 10:30 am, with a reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA Florida, 5850 Brannen Rd. South, Lakeland, FL 33813.
What’s your fondest memory of Duane ?
What’s a lesson you learned from Duane ?
Share a story where Duane 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Duane you’ll never forget.
How did Duane make you smile?