James Hickey Sr., 79 / March 24, 1932 — April 17, 2011

Published 7:50 pm Tuesday, April 19, 2011

James “Jim” E. Hickey Sr., 79, of Niles, passed away Sunday evening, April 17, 2011 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend following an illness.

James Hickey Sr., 79

Jim was born in South Bend on March 24, 1932. He was raised by his loving parents, Marvin and Katherine Hickey.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country proudly during the Korean War, and obtained many commendations and medals.

After Jim returned from the war he married Betty A. (Lindsley) Hickey on Nov. 2, 1958 at a ceremony in Niles.

Jim worked for many years at Simplicity Pattern Co., where he was a Journeyman. In his free time, Jim enjoyed bowling and having a beer with friends. He also was an avid Notre Dame fan and loved watching television, especially game shows and “Law and Order.” He was a member of the Buchanan American Legion Post 51. He mostly loved spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty, in 2007; two sons, Andrew Grenert and Marvin Hickey; and a great-grandchild.

Jim is survived by two daughters, Vickie Draper of Niles, Marie (Steve) Ingle of Niles; two sons, James Hickey Jr. of Mishawaka and Robert (Roberta) Hickey of Niles; 14 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services for Jim will be held on Thursday, April 21 at noon at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, 61453 M-51 in Niles.

A time of visitation will begin one hour prior.

An interment will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens with full military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund P.O. Box 510570 Livonia, MI 48151.

Those wishing to send condolences to the family may upload a photo or leave a message at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com or on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BrownFuneralHomeNiles.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel.