Hickory Creek Music Teacher Remembered for 20 Years of Dedication and Joy

Frankfort, IL — Hickory Creek Middle School and the Frankfort School District 157-C community are mourning the loss of Dave Wonder, a cherished staff member who passed away this week.

Wonder had been a part of Hickory Creek Middle School since 2004 as a music teacher. He was known for bringing enthusiasm and a love for music to students and colleagues alike. His dedication helped students feel accepted, inspired creativity, and fostered a sense of belonging in the school community.

Beyond the classroom, Wonder led the District’s efforts to raise awareness for cystic fibrosis and championed charitable initiatives supporting children with the condition. He also played a key role in bringing Tiger TV to the school—a student-led media program that allows students to tell stories about their school and showcase its successes through a pre-taped television broadcast shown to the whole school each week.

Principal Tricia Dotson shared, “His energy, joy, and unwavering positivity made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the profound impact Dave had on our school community.”

Wonder was also known for shaping the school’s culture, often DJing at pep assemblies, greeting students with music and an enthusiastic welcome on his stereo equipment at the front door of the school. During his many years at the school, Wonder was one of the most well-known and beloved teachers due to his ability to connect and inspire students. His legacy will live on at Hickory Creek Middle School and in the lives of the students and colleagues he inspired.

Dave Wonder was a caring teacher, husband, and father and he will be dearly missed. The District has support services available for students and staff coping with this loss.

There has been an outpouring of support and the community will be informed about opportunities to honor Dave Wonder’s memory.