Robert Earl Hickman passed away on April 8th, 2023 after living 90 extraordinary years. Blessed with boundless energy, a thirst for knowledge, and compassion for others, Robert filled each day with incredible achievements.
Robert was born on January 24, 1933, to Earnest Earl Hickman and Myrtle Elizabeth Van Houten in Guthrie, Oklahoma. He was the fourth of 6 children, and unfortunately at the age of 10, he lost his father in an automobile accident. As a result, Robert matured quickly and developed an unparalleled work ethic and sense of duty. While attending school as a young teen, he held multiple jobs which proved vital to his remaining family’s welfare.
During the Korean War, Robert turned 18 and joined the US Marine Corps. He deployed to North Korea with the 11th Marine Artillery Regiment where he served as a cannoneer and forward observer. While his years in the military were brief, Robert always identified with the Marines’ can-do attitude and winning spirit.
Once back home, Robert attended Central State College (UCO) in Edmond, Ok and started a 33 year career at Tinker AFB. As a manager with keen attention to detail and leadership skills, Robert garnered numerous recognition awards for his metrology laboratory team. Their precise calibrations and expertise contributed to the maintenance of millions of dollars of complex equipment and the safety of countless personnel.
Upon retirement from Tinker, Robert obtained his electrical contractor’s license and established a family owned business which served both commercial and residential clients. His electrical company operated in the Ok City metro area for 20 years, and specialized in wiring installation for new construction, renovations, and major repairs. Robert was particularly proud of the fact that his son and several grandsons were inspired by his success and became electricians as well.
Robert was dedicated to his career, but he considered his role as family man to be his most important responsibility. He was devoted to his wife, Violet Chennault, for 64 years and their three children. Robert and Violet built a wonderful life on 5 acres east of Edmond and enjoyed country living at its best. When friends or relatives visited, they could find them tending farm animals/ large vegetable gardens; swimming in the pool; or out hunting, boating or motorcycle riding.
Robert was “ in his element” when working side by side with family designing and building houses, shops, fences, furniture, and even a car from the ground up! He not only imparted technical information during the creations, but he shared valuable gifts of time, advice, and laughter with his children and grandchildren. Robert never failed to answer the “Dad, what do you think…” questions or the occasional “1-800-GRANDPA” phone calls. No matter what the topic was, each encounter was enlightening. Robert’s myriad life experiences and broad knowledge base (which also included his hobbies of genealogy, American history, camping and traveling) proved helpful numerous times.
Throughout the encouraging conversations and joint accomplishments, Robert taught his loved ones significant lessons. A few of these were: Take care of family; never fear new challenges; focus on the journey and not complete perfection; thank God every day for good health and blessings.
Robert has now joined his Lord and Savior, and his wife Violet in Heaven; as well as his daughter, Sandra Trout, his parents, and 5 siblings. He leaves behind his daughter Connie Hickman, Edmond, Ok and son James Hickman (wife Sherry) of Jones, Ok. Other survivors include grandchildren Mark Johnson (Terri), Craig Watson (Barbara), Jason Trout (Kenzie), Jared Hickman (Karen), Dylan Hickman (Jaime), and Lindsay Eschmann. Robert also dearly loved his 18 great/great grandchildren, nephews and nieces, and many cousins.
The family wishes to thank Dr. MN Ahmed, Cardiologist, and Dr. David Johnson, Family Medicine, and their staff for many years of superb and compassionate care. Loved ones also express special gratitude to Janet, his caregiver; Bill and Sherri; Jon and Christy; and Bob and Cassie for adding even more joy to Robert’s final years. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to encourage individuals to “give back” by donating their gifts of time and conversation to elderly family members, friends and neighbors. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 13th from 4:00-7:00 pm at Hayes Funeral Home in Guthrie, OK. A private graveside service will occur the next day at Guthrie’s Summit View Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Hayes Funeral Home.
Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.hayesfh.com