Michael G. Hickey's Obituary
Michael G. Hickey of Lakewood, Washington, passed away on January 21, 2026.
Mike was born on March 17, 1951, in Savannah, Georgia, to William and Peggy Hickey (b. Dorothy Hudson). Mike was a beloved brother to his siblings, William Hickey of Tacoma, Sean Hickey of Tacoma, and Colleen Justin of Athol, Idaho.
Eventually, the family settled in Fircrest, where Mike attended Wilson High School. During his years at Washington State University, Mike joined the Beta Theta Pi fraternity and enrolled in the ROTC program. Mike graduated from WSU in 1974 with his sights set on the skies, going on to realize his dream of becoming a pilot.
He served in the Air Force for 6 years. In 1980, he joined Delta Airlines as a commercial airline pilot, flying both international and domestic flights for 35 years before retiring in 2005.
Mike will always be remembered for his sharp humor, his generous spirit, and the love and care he showed for his family throughout his life. He was a devoted and trustworthy friend to many. We teased and admired him for his dedication to immaculacy, precision, and the art of the golf swing.
Mike shared his wit and sparkling laugh with everyone he met. He lived his life with spiritual conviction and love for God, strong commitment to his ideals, and an inquisitive mind committed to lifelong learning.
Mike's surviving family includes his brothers, Bill and Sean; sister Colleen; sister-in-law Margie Hickey (b. Burich); brother-in-law John Justin; nieces Crystal LaFontaine (b. Schlanbusch), Heather Schlanbusch, Katie Sandoval (b. Hickey), Quinn Hickey, and nephew Killian Hickey.
He was preceded in death by his parents, "B" and Peg. "He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction." - 2 Corinthians 1:4 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching." -Hebrews 10:23-25
Mike's family invites you to join them on February 20, 2026, to honor Mike's life together. A service will be held at First Baptist Church of Lakewood at 2:00 p.m. An open reception will follow at Fircrest Golf Course.
First Baptist Church of Lakewood: 5400 112th St SW, Lakewood 98499 (112th currently under construction so consider taking alternate route). Refer to Google Maps for a suggested route.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?

