ELIZABETH CAROL HICKMAN GREGOREK

BRONSON, Fla. — Elizabeth Carol Hickman Gregorek passed away March 29, 2026, in Bronson, Fla. She was surrounded by her family.

Elizabeth was born Dec. 25, 1960, in Washington, D.C., and was, in all respects, a Christmas baby. A true Merry Birthday and Happy Christmas. She brought joy to all!

Liz is survived by her husband, Derek Gregorek; son Tyler Gregorek, his wife Ashley and their children, Madeline and Rory; son Garrett Gregorek, wife Jillian and their children Bo and June; parents, Thomas and Carolyn Hickman; and siblings Rebecca Garcia and her daughter Kristy and Scott Hickman, wife Natasha and son Jackson.

Liz graduated from Magruder High School (Maryland) in 1979 and graduated from Elon College (North Carolina) in 1983.

Liz and I dated in high school and we met up again after college. We resumed holding hands and would do so for the next 42 years. We married on March 29, 1986. I know she persevered to the end so we could be together on our 40th wedding anniversary.

Shortly after our wedding, we moved to Brandon, Vt. We were blessed with two sons. It just didn’t get much better — a perfect family, in a great town and incredible community. It was the place to grow and thrive as a family. Although we called Vermont home, grandchildren prompted our move to Florida in 2025.

Liz thrived in a social environment, whether it was her family, friends or work. She had an infectious way of spreading joy and energy. Her career was defined as a Human Resource Manager; she just called it, “working with people.” She especially enjoyed her “hobby jobs” such as volunteering at the Chamber of Commerce, Planning Commission and Thrift Shop.

My special thanks to family and friends who journeyed to Florida to help Liz with her cancer battle. The smiles you brought to her will never be forgotten. My gratitude and praise to you all will never be enough.

We will have a Celebration on July 12, from 2-5 p.m., at the Lilac Inn, Brandon, Vt.

All are welcome.

Liz asked that donations be made to the Navy Seal Foundation: 1619 D Street Virginia Beach VA 23459. www.Navysealfoundation.org/donate/. ◊