Charles "Charlie" Richard Hickman

Charles Richard Hickman passed away on July 3 at home after a brave fight with ocular melanoma. Charlie was raised as a Methodist and later joined the Baptist church.  In his youth, he was an active Boy Scout, learning the trade of an outdoorsman.  He ran track, studied wildlife management at UT Knoxville, then became a mail carrier for the US Postal Service for 42 years.  A dedicated grouse hunter, Charlie knew the Cumberlands better than most people know their own back yards, and wore out several excellent pointers in the process. Charlie was a disciplined caver, a fisherman, a paddler, a hiker and a general broad-span explorer of all things outdoors.  He amassed a vast and intricate knowledge of Western backroads via Jeep and motorcycle over many years of adventure, and was happy to share his time and knowledge with others who dared to step out of the “known”.  Charlie was in all things cheerful, reliable, capable, truthful and remarkable.  A most unique, highly respected and beloved Friend to those fortunate enough to have shared his companionship.  There could be no better friend in life.

 

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents Don and Mary Hickman.  He is survived by his wife Kathy, his brother Ray Hickman and sister Sheila Hickman Strunk.  His special nephews and niece, Heather,(Avery), Halsey, Hunter, Kyle and Christopher.

 

“The two hardest things to say in life is hello for the first time and goodbye for the last.” – Moira Rogers

Godspeed, Charlie.  You will be deeply missed.

 

Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 718 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103