Normand J Hickey

The son of the late Francis James and Juliette (Rioux) Hickey, Normand was born and raised in Montville, Connecticut, where he spent most of his life. After attending New London High School, he worked for Smiley Construction and developed a passion for motorcycles and racing. He won seven trophies, something he remained proud of throughout his life.

It was at the racetrack that Normand met Rita Paul, winning both his race and her heart that day. They married in 1960 and started their family. Though this ended his racing days, he kept busy with Rita, raising their four daughters and working together on their properties. They grew a small excavating and landscaping business into what ultimately became Hickey, Inc., which they successfully ran for 40 years. Normand had a strong work ethic and lived by the motto "Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today." Rita was his partner in business and beside him in every aspect of his life.

Normand’s interests were varied. He was a Freemason, and member of the New London Motorcycle Club. He took flying lessons, and he was a lifetime member of the International Magicians Society. He loved his time with his beautiful granddaughter, Julia, and with Rita, enjoying county fairs, Car Night at Ocean Beach, dinners out, and attending live music events – and a trip to Ireland. He rarely sat idle except to watch the news and NASCAR races. Country music was a constant in his life—the songs of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams Jr. would become his soundtrack until his final days.

He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law: Denise Hickey; Kelley Cooper and her husband Brian Cooper; Karen Bencivengo and her husband Frank Bencivengo; and Kimbra Hickey; his granddaughter Julia Marquardt, his brother Joseph Hickey, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Rita; his brother Francis “Bibbs” Hickey; and his sister Julie Fox.

The family would like to acknowledge each staff member at Bayview Health Care in Waterford, and his Hospice caregivers, with heartfelt gratitude and thanks for your hard work and commitment to Norm's wellbeing during the 18 years he was in your care.

Memorial services will be private. Donations may be made in Normand's memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.