Keith Vernon John Hickman

It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of Keith Vernon John Hickman on September 1, 2025 at the age of 87.  He died surrounded by love in the Nanaimo Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Born on September 19, 1937, in Provost Alberta, Keith lived a full and meaningful life.  After high school, he graduated from SAIT in Calgary Alberta. He was extremely proud to have worked on Canada’s advanced and secretive Avro Arrow jet program.  Subsequently he relocated to Regina to work for the Saskatchewan Power Corporation for 36 years.  Following retirement, he moved to Nanaimo, British Columbia where he enjoyed the milder weather.  

Keith was a man who could fix or build anything and was happiest puttering in a garage.  As a young man he enjoyed darts, playing baseball, and going to the races at Kings Park Speedway.  In his twilight years he cheered for the Jays and the Saskatchewan Roughriders,  enjoyed playing cards, reading, puzzles, and loved watching old westerns.  He always had a great passion for fishing and cars, but above all, he cherished spending time with his family and dear friends.

Keith will be deeply missed by his son Scott Hickman, daughter Kim Hillaby (Shane), their son Mitchel, their daughter Lauren (Lockie),  and their children Brayden and Carson Johnston.  He will also be forever cherished by his step-daughter Shelley Legin (Adrian), their daughter Ciera Legin, as well as the many dear card-playing friends over the years.  Evelyn Cavan, his good friend and daily confidante, will also miss him terribly.  

Keith was predeceased by his parents Clara and Howard Hickman, and daughter Charlene Hickman.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sands Funeral Chapel - 1 Newcastle Ave, Nanaimo on September 20, 2025 at 1:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that tribute gifts be made to the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation.  To donate, visit their website online at http://nanaimohospitalfoundation.com and select "Palliative Care" as the designation for your gift, or call them at (250) 751-5864 to make a donation over the phone.