Charles Eugene Hickey

Charles Eugene Hickey, age 96, fondly known as Charlie or Gene, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 8, 2023, in Castle Rock, Colorado. He was born on May 14, 1927, in Hoisington, Kansas to Charles and Anna (Reichert) Hickey. He was the youngest of 4 children and his siblings, Michael Earl, Mary Lorraine and Patrick Leon helped run the farm and all graduated from Hoisington High School. To recognize his recent donation, the high school set up The Charles “Gene” Hickey Memorial Scholarship which will award $500 per year to a graduating senior, and they have plans to enhance their athletic facilities soon. Up to his passing, he was a longtime subscriber to the Hoisington Dispatch, and he enjoyed reading about the local happenings.

He enlisted in the Army in 1955 and served at Camp Chaffee in Arkansas but was released early after his mother’s passing to return home to run the family farm. Besides being a farmer, he was a roofer, car and tractor enthusiast and enjoyed buying and selling properties. He had a great sense of humor, he was smart, he had an amazing memory, and he could spend hours talking to anyone because he was so friendly and welcoming.

Later in life, he met his true love, Mabel Joan (Preston) Obrey, fondly known as Joan or Joanie, and they were married on December 23, 1974. They were constant companions and enjoyed watching and attending sporting events (especially cheering on the Denver Broncos), traveling, bowling, skiing and much more. They moved to Larkspur, Colorado in 2001 and enjoyed living the rest of their time together in their dream home.

Charles is survived by his three daughters, Lenora, Diane, and Leslie, 8 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and their spouses and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Joan, their daughter Janice, his parents, and his siblings. He was a truly amazing man who will be greatly missed.

According to his wishes, a cremation has taken place and a celebration of life for both Charles and Joan Hickey will be held at a later date.