Mr. John E. Hickey, Sr., age 57, of 26 Barringer Rd., Ilion, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday evening, May 20, 2004 in Bassett Healthcare, Cooperstown. He was surrounded with the love and support of his family at the time of his passing. He was born on January 24, 1947 in Philadelphia, a son of the late John Joseph and Elizabeth (Leszczynski) Hickey and was educated in Philadelphia schools. John was a proud and well-decorated U.S Veteran. Upon the United States entrance into the Vietnam War, he enlisted with the U.S. Airforce on April 13, 1967 and was honorably discharged January 23, 1973, over five years of heroic service. After his discharge from the service he settled in the Mohawk Valley. On August 25, 2001 he joined in marriage with the former Linda Rulewicz in Herkimer. They have shared an abiding respect and deep commitment for one another and to raising their children. For 31 years, John was employed with Remington Arms, Ilion, retiring as manager in 2002. Throughout his career he provided the firm with conscientious and loyal service. He was a member of the Employees Mutual Association of Ilion and was formerly a trustee for the Frankfort Village Board. He was of the Catholic Faith. In his personal life, John was a family man who derived great pride and happiness from his children, tailoring his relationship with each of them according to his understanding and his sensitivity for their individuality. As a man and as a parent whose emotions ran deep and strong, he bestowed upon his family his love, his guidance and support. He greatly enjoyed the company of his grandchildren and was appreciative of the time that he was able to spend with them. Among his many neighbors, acquaintances, and colleagues, he demonstrated a sincere and dedicated commitment to friendship. Throughout his life, he made a strong impact on other people from the help and concern that was endlessly given by him. He will be remembered by all for his fun-loving, energetic personality and for never giving up his battle. A true sports fan he was a "die hard" S.U. fan and enjoyed watching the Philadelphia sports teams. Survivors include his wife Linda of Ilion, a son, John Hickey, Jr. and wife Michelle of Utica, a step-son, Michael Emrich and fiance Heidi Giachetti of Jordanville a step daughter, Johanna Emrich and fiance Salvatore Barbero of Ilion, a sister Roseann Hickey of Saranac Lake, three grandchildren, Stone Emanuel Hickey, Daniel Matys, and Jacob Michael Emrich and one grandchild on the way, many aunts and uncles including Louise Walawender of Herkimer and Sister Acquinas, in-laws, Sandy Zeman and husband Dick of Herkimer, the Rev. Bob Rulewicz and wife Sandi of CT., John Mancuso and wife Laura of Florida, and Mary Rulewicz and husband Keith of Washington, many nieces and cousins. Also surviving are many dear friends, including, Kim Driscoll and Ron and Karen Charles. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Patricia Vernice and Bernadette Anderson. The family invites relatives and friends to visitation at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main Street between Ilion and Frankfort, on Saturday, May 22, 2004 from 5-8 p.m. A funeral will commence at 12 O'Clock p.m. on Sunday, May 23, 2004 from the chapel of the Enea Family Funeral Home, Ilion/Frankfort, with the Rev. Robert Rulewicz, officiating. Full military honors will be offered by the United States Air Force following the funeral service. Interment will be privately held at the convenience of the family. The family extends its appreciation to the doctors, nurses and staff of the 5th floor Special Care Unit at Bassett Healthcare for their outstanding compassion and care. For directions to the Funeral Home, click the link above.