Teri Aspacher Wicker Obituary (1956 - 2025)

Tim Juckette '75 said:

Dr. Teri Lee Wicker, born November 4, 1956, passed away surrounded by family on May 2, 2025 at her home in Chandler, AZ. She leaves behind her devoted and loving husband of 31 years, Terry Wicker. Teri’s greatest pride and joy from life came from her children and grandchildren; her son Eric Underdown (Lindsey) and their children Reese and Allie; daughter Lesly Kelly (Patrick) and their children Adelaide and Declan; daughter Sarah Radlof (Ryan) who are joyfully expecting a child in November; and stepson Brian Wicker (Starla) and their children Sydney and Mason.
Teri grew up in Tucson, AZ, the daughter of Donna Jeanne Aspacher and Thomas Nathan Aspacher. While later in life they reminisced fondly about it, their small houses on Palo Verde and Zuni Ave were the source of many adventures for sister Lori Riden, and brothers John and Bob Aspacher.
Teri was a lifelong learner, graduating from Palo Verde high school in 1975 and entering into Pima Community College to obtain her Associates Degree in Nursing in 1981.
As she embarked on her 44-year career as a nurse, she continued to advance her education and was incredibly proud of her PhD in Nursing, earned from the University of Arizona in 2008.
Teri’s legacy in nursing is particularly felt through the number of nurses she has mentored and the leadership she has provided throughout her career. With a specialty in cardiology and a mastering of the art of relationships, she quickly moved into leadership, spending decades in the John C. Lincoln Health system, as well as Banner Health, Abrazo, Yuma Regional, and Dignity Health – holding roles from Director to Chief Nursing Officer. Her final years in nursing were described as some of her most fulfilling, working for Claro Healthcare to travel all across the United States to support improving hospital operations. Teri served in countless volunteer roles in nursing, including as the President of the Arizona Nurses Association.
Even when she was working long hours or studying for her many degrees, Teri always prioritized her crafts. She sewed pillows for cardiac rehab patients, patches on Girl Scout vests, and particularly loved quilting. As Teri grew unable to quilt, she derived great joy from diamond art painting. Nothing made her happier than being able to pass her treasured pieces on to friends, family, and strangers who needed to be uplifted.

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