Donald Edward Hickey, 81, of Wataga, passed away on September 3, 2024. Born on December 13, 1942, Don dedicated 40 years of his life to the Social Security Administration, retiring as the manager of the Galesburg office in 2005. He was proficient in the German language and translated German legal documents throughout his career.
A graduate of Central High School in Peoria, IL, and Bradley University, Don was deeply invested in his community and loved the outdoors. He coached youth basketball and T-ball, served on the Wataga Village Board for 24 years, was a charter member of the Wataga Lions Club, and was recognized for his contribution to The Nature Conservancy.
Don was a loving, compassionate, and fun individual known for his love for helping people, and his wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed nature, birds, clouds, fishing, camping, and cruising with friends and family. He had a passion for music, classic cars, and cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nadine (Anderson) Hickey; son, Don (Pam) Hickey of Galesburg, IL; daughters, Dena (Jeff) Wilcoxen of Bonita Springs, FL, and Pamela (Sean) Gannon of Palatine, IL; grandchildren, Andrew (fiancee Amy) Hickey, Kimberly (Seth) Hill, Jake (fiancee Jane) Burkhardt, and Lia Gannon; great-grandchildren, Aubree Hill and Melody Hickey; sister, Linda (Tom) Vef of O’Fallon, MO; and many loving nieces and nephews. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Edna Hickey; sister, Sharon Hamann; and his beloved aunt and uncle, Guy and Gladys Boldon.
The family would like to thank the A O&W Ambulance Service and staff at the Knox County Nursing Home Memory Care Unit and Transitions Hospice for their loving care and compassion.
An open house with the family will be held at the Wataga Town Hall at 100 W. Willard St. (corner of Willard and Depot) in Wataga, IL, on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Wataga Fire Department, honoring Don’s commitment to his community.
