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Service:
Private graveside services accompanied by full
Military Burial rights provided by American Legion
Post #263, will be held at a later date.
Obituary
Gary William Hickey, 69, went home to
his heavenly father, and reunited with his parents
and brother David on Oct. 4,2024 surrounded by and
blanketed in as much love and honor as his children
and family could provide.
Gary, a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and a
lifelong resident of Lincoln Illinois, was born
Feb.15, 1955 to Eugene F. Hickey Sr. and Betty Jean
(Kraus) Hickey.
Gary was a 1973 graduate of Lincoln Community High
School. Immediately after his graduation Gary joined
and served his country in the United States Air
Force as a Jet Engine Mechanic. Following his
enlistment and throughout his life Gary was devoted
to his family, his art, and continued to serve his
community in various ways such as restaurant owner,
Police Officer, and eventually owner of Gary’s Sign
Design in Lincoln until his retirement.
Gary was an incredible artist specializing in
woodworking, pencil, chalk, and paint, but
especially the rare form of hand pinstriping, which
he was most known for professionally. During his
retirement his art transformed into award winning
streaks for years for holiday decorations at
Friendship Manor. Gary’s favorite things included
antique car shows, continuing his art as a hobby by
making signs for friends, spending time with his
children, and most of all his time with his
grandchildren.
Gary is survived by his loving children, Chrystal
Maas of Lincoln, Chad Hickey (Lincoln), Jeremy
(Katy) Hickey of Springfield, Bradley Jordan and
Cory Swider both of Danville, grandchildren Blake,
Marty (Ryleigh), Trista, Marissa, Jaelyn, Emmalyn,
Alley, Edward and honorary granddaughter Mia.
Great-Grandson M.J.
Gary is further survived by his siblings PearlAnn (Penny)Pilbean
of Arizona, Gene (Marsha)Hickey, Joseph Hickey
(Wendy), Regina Maas, many beloved nieces and
nephews and his special friends Donnie Francis,
Donice Dyer and Caregiver Sharon Bedwell. Gary was
preceded in death by his parents Gene Sr. and Betty,
brother David, Son-in-Law Brian Maas, and
Brother-in-Law Eric Maas. |
Family would like to extend a special thank
you to LMH ER staff, and Gentiva Hospice for their
incredible care and devotion to Gary.
Cremation rites have been entrusted to Central Cremation
Center. Private graveside services accompanied by full
Military Burial rights provided by American Legion Post
#263, will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society,
American Legion Post # 263, or to the family. |
