‘A Kind Heart’: James Tickner of Parkdale dies in Saturday crash

Tickner, who worked as a line cook at Divot’s, is survived by his parents, John and Elise, and a sister, Dana, 26. Elise Tickner said a celebration of life will take place on a weekend date in October.

Through the shock of the young man’s death, “it has been amazing, the love pouring out of the community,” Elise said.

“He put passion into everything he did,” she said of James, an artist who loved dancing, hip-hop, and extensively wrote poems and song lyrics.

“He was so exuberant. He was genuine. He made people laugh,” she said.

Friends posted tributes on Tickner’s Facebook page. Messages came from close to home and from friends who knew Tickner in his travels to Thailand.

Jonathan Enos wrote, “Rest easy, James, sad to see another one of my best buds growing up from elementary school through high school gone too soon. My heart hurts. Your goofy personality and kind heart will be missed greatly. My prayers go out for your family.”

Lifelong friend Soleil Ammon posted, “James, it is beautiful how many lives you touched. I will always remember you as this goofy kid that loved to joke around. I remember jumping on the trampoline with you and Elliot, playing countless made-up games and laughing. I had a great childhood and you were a part of what made it so special. My heart is with your family and may you rest in peace.”

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The OSP crash investigation reveals that a 1998 Ford F-150 pickup, operated by Tickner, 22, was southbound on Highway 281 when the vehicle left the roadway, went through a ditch, struck an embankment before rolling over and crossing Blackburn Road before coming to rest and catching fire, according to a press release provided by Oregon State Police.

“It was a pretty significant impact,” said Sgt. Kaipo Raiser of Oregon State Police.

Speed and substance use are both being looked at as contributing factors, according to OSP Raiser said that reconstruction specialists have not completed their work, and the crash is still under investigation. OSP was assisted at the scene by the Hood River County Sheriff’s Department, Parkdale Fire Department and Oregon Department Of Transportation.