Longtime 'Angel Man' Donald W. Dickey Dies at 93

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Donald W. Dickey, affectionately known as 'The Angel Man,' passed away on January 14, 2026, at the age of 93 in Wildwood, Florida. Dickey was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1932 and was an avid football player in high school and during his time in the U.S. Marine Corps. After retiring from Ford Motor Company in 1994, Dickey moved to Florida with his companion Mary Bolton and continued his passion for crafting handmade angels to give to others.

Why it matters

Dickey's lifelong dedication to spreading joy and kindness through his handmade angel crafts made him a beloved figure in his local communities in Michigan and Florida. His passing marks the end of an era for the 'Angel Man' and his impact on those around him.

The details

Dickey was known for striking up conversations with strangers and gifting them his handmade angels, which he would craft with love to brighten someone's day. In addition to his angel-making, Dickey was an avid fan of Detroit sports teams and volunteered with the Lenawee County Humane Society and provided pet therapy at local nursing homes.

• Dickey was born on November 4, 1932 in Detroit, Michigan.
• He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduating high school in 1951.
• Dickey married Eleanor Snyder in 1954 and they raised three daughters together.
• Dickey retired from Ford Motor Company in Saline, Michigan in 1994.
• Dickey moved to Florida with his companion Mary Bolton in 2017.

What’s next

A graveside service will be held for Dickey in Michigan on April 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM, followed by a celebration of life at 1:00 PM at the Tecumseh American Legion.