Dorothy Eileen Hickey

Dorothy Eileen Hickey was born June 8, 1928, in Chicago to the late Allan N. and the late Helen E. (nee Lynn) Duncan. She died peacefully, Monday, December 19th, 2022, at her home in Arlington Heights surrounded by her loving family.

Dorothy was the devoted wife of the late William M. Hickey; beloved mother of the late Eileen (Larry) Ferguson, James Hickey, and Mary (Frank) Rullo; cherished grandmother of Julie and Michael Ferguson, Ryan Hickey (Eliza Firosz), Mollie (Michael) DiMaggio, and Megan Rullo; proud great-grandmother of Jaxon Hickey and Emma DiMaggio; loving sister of late siblings: William Duncan, Jean Durand, Shirley Lamberty, Grant Duncan, and Richard Duncan; dear sister-in-law of the late Mary Foreman; treasured aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy’s primary focus for her entire life was her family: initially as a loving daughter and sister, then as a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. On November 12, 1949, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, William “Bill” Hickey, who she met in seventh grade. They were together for nearly fifty-two years, until Bill’s passing.After settling in Des Plaines, they raised three children which eventually led to grandchildren, allowing Dorothy’s nurturing qualities to shine through. She was always an adoring and sometimes indulgent grandmother, finding absolute joy in time spent with her grandchildren. As they grew, she became a wise counselor to them. She was known to other parents and students at school for her dependable appearance at events, her kind demeanor, and beautiful, welcoming smile.

Dorothy was a multi-talented person - “A jack of all trades, master of none,” as she would refer to it. However, to her family, she was truly amazing in every way. She was fearless and would tackle any project that came her way. She had a knack for sewing, resulting in adorable outfits and costumes for her grandchildren. She was highly adaptable and was able to navigate her way around a computer. When she died at the age of ninety-four, she possessed a valid Illinois driver’s license. She graciously hosted family and friends for both holiday celebrations and casual get-togethers. These were filled with joy and laughter, so much laughter. She delighted in gardening and loved having her home surrounded by colorful flowering plants.

In later years, Dorothy and Bill enjoyed winter trips with family to both Sanibel and Marco Island in Florida. She continued these with her family and friends after Bill’s passing. She also moved to Arlington Heights at that time, making another beautiful, welcoming home. Dorothy was a caring, loyal, empathetic friend and neighbor. She enjoyed many hours of conversation, traveling, and rummikub with dear friends.

Dorothy did know hardship and relied on her enduring faith to sustain her. She had a strong belief that things happen for a reason. A favorite phrase of Dorothy’s was, “It’s a great life if you don’t weaken.” She was the strongest person one could ever know and put up a valiant fight. Eventually her body did weaken, but her spirit never did. If you had the honor of knowing her, you were blessed.

Visitation Tuesday, December 27th from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Glueckert Funeral Home,1520 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Prayers Wednesday, December 28th at 9:15 at Glueckert Funeral Home to St. Mary Parish, 10 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove for Mass at 10:00 AM. Interment All Saints Cemetery