John Michael Hickey

John Michael Hickey was born on April 25th, 1951 in Tacoma, Washington to parents John Hickey and Iva Hickey (Lindeman). Growing up in Tacoma, he enjoyed spending time with family and many friends whether at home or on an adventure. He graduated from Wilson High School in 1969, where he first crossed paths with Patti (Maitland). They were reintroduced years later and got married in 1980.

He was a lifelong Washington State Cougar fan who frequently watched or attended games with college friends. He graduated from WSU in 1973, with a BS in Police Science and Administration. John never missed a Cougar game and watched them to the end, even if the game was not going their way! Not only was he a sports fan, but a coach of nearly all his children’s teams whether it be baseball, basketball, soccer, as well as an active participant in other non-sport endeavors. The nature of the activity didn’t matter, he was there to learn it and lead it for everyone.

John began a career at the University of Puget Sound as Director of Safety and Security in 1974. John obtained his Masters of Business Administration in 1983 at UPS. John had many roles at UPS over the years and retired after 47 years of service in 2021 as Associate Vice President for Business Services and Executive Director of Community Engagement.

John had an authentic interest in getting to know and care about people he encountered in life. His ability to truly listen to what each person was sharing made his many relationships with family, friends, coworkers and students, and even strangers so uniquely special. He wanted to take care of and accommodate everyone and could really bring a crowd, small or large, together.

John passed away on November 4, 2025 after a brief illness. His love of family and friends and dedication to kindness, growth, and excellence will certainly not be forgotten. He is survived by his wife Patricia Hickey; sisters Sharon Eivinsen, Susan Gunsalus; children Jason Cody Bennett, John Caelin Hickey, Jessica Chantal Hickey-Meyer; and grandchildren Leilani, Mila, Zachary, and Marguerite.

A Celebration of his life will be held December 6th, at University of Puget Sound, Kilworth Chapel 3410 N. 18th St, Tacoma, at 1pm. Immediately following the service there will be a reception in the Rotunda, Wheelock Student Center, 3209 N. 15th St. Because of his love of animals, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County.