Zephyr “Micah” Sickinger, age 23, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away as the result of a motorcycle accident on Thursday, September 3, 2026.
Micah was born on September 28, 2002. He was baptized at Rockwood Lutheran Church surrounded by his family in 2004. He attended Maribel Lutheran Grade School and was confirmed on May 17, 2017. His confirmation verse was Revelation 2:10b., “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” He graduated from Mishicot High School in 2021. After high school, Micah went on to work in the tech industry at Cellcom where he became like family to his coworkers. Most recently, he was working at Pizza Garden where he became a pillar of the establishment.
Micah spent his childhood surrounded by love on the family farm, where he grew from an adorable little boy with his dimples no one could resist into the handsome, strong, and intelligent man he became. His parents and siblings will always treasure memories of childhood wrestling matches, bedtime stories, lemonade stands, camping adventures, and all the fun and creative ideas Micah was always dreaming up. These memories reflect the joy, laughter, and love he brought to his family from the very beginning.
Micah had an infectious personality that made people feel welcome from the moment they met him. He had a way of building those around him up while, at the very same time, giving them a little razzing; one of the many ways his humor and affection came through. He carried a quiet confidence that never wavered, no matter the situation. He was simply comfortable being himself, and that authenticity drew people to him.
When Micah cared about something or set his mind to something, there was never much doubt that he would find a way to make it happen. He approached life with an ease and efficiency that seemed to come natural to him. He was wise beyond his years, curious, capable, and remarkably resourceful. There seemed to be very little he couldn’t figure out. He had so many talents: woodworking, cooking, biking, technology, drawing, and countless others.
Above all, Micah loved his family and friends. They were at the heart of his life, and the love he had for them ran deep. He also held a special love for Washington Island, a place that brought him a sense of peace, belonging, and joy. The memories he made there with the people he loved will remain among the most treasured reminders of who Micah was and how deeply he was loved.
Micah is survived by his loving mother and step father: Laurel and Chris den Heijer and grandmother, Ruth Behnke. He is also survived by his siblings and their families: Stacy and Craig Schweppe and their son Chase; Morgan Sickinger and his fiancée, Mindy Ladwig and her daughters, Kennedy and Sydney; Megan and Nic Jensen and their children, Savanna and Forrest; Marlee Sickinger and her special friend Tim Mossberger; Michelle and Chris Steiner and their children, Cameron and Colson; and Maleah and Al Simonis. Also surviving are Micah’s biological siblings, Kayla and Justin Brooks and biological mother. Micah was preceded in death by his father, Michael Sickinger; his grandparents, Jerome and Audrey Sickinger and William Behnke; his biological father, Bradley Brooks; and his biological grandmother, Sharon Pautz.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2426 North Rapids Road, Manitowoc. Rev. Ryan Henning will officiate and burial will take place on Washington Island. The family will greet relatives and friends at Grace Ev. Lutheran Church on Friday, September 11, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The visitation will continue on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Micah’s name.
The family of Zephyr “Micah” Sickinger would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Maleah and Al for being devoted siblings, unwavering supporters, and closest friends. They also wish to thank his friends John, Liz, and Dakota for their love and companionship. A special gratitude to Dan and Colinda Behnke and Mark and Heather Behnke for their unconditional love. Micah was cherished by countless others whose names are too many to list, a testament of the love he inspired in so many. Thank you, Micah, for being our son, brother and friend. Until we meet again in Heaven – rest easy, Micah.
Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home is assisting the family. To leave a message of sympathy for the family, please visit Micah’s obituary page at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.
