Charles Edward Hickey, 81, died peacefully after a prolonged illness at his home in Newton, MA on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
Born December 23, 1943 in Geneva, NY to Charles and Nan (Quigley), he attended DeSales High School before earning a degree from Albany State in 1966.
During the Vietnam War, Mr. Hickey served with the 1st Cavalry Division in '67-'68. He was recognized for courage and valor in combat being awarded two Bronze Star Medals and a Purple Heart Medal for wounds he sustained. After recovering from his injuries he served various roles including notifying next of kin of fallen soldiers.
Mr Hickey was a former FBI Agent. He spent his 30 year career investigating Foreign Counterintelligence and Organized Crime cases, retiring in 2001. Throughout his service career, he conducted himself with honor and dignity, always motivated with a selfless sense of duty.
An accomplished long distance runner for many years, he also enjoyed reading and collecting books for his personal library. One of his favorite things to do was make breakfast for his family and regularly kept a gallon of coffee ice cream hidden away. He played basketball whenever he could, and enjoyed watching the Red Sox, Celtics and his childhood favorite, the Cleveland Browns.
A loving husband, dedicated father and grandfather, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janice A. (Dolan), two sons, Michael and his partner Danielle and Colin and his wife Colleen, two grandchildren, Flynn and Beau, two brothers-in-law, Dennis and John Dolan and three sisters-in-law, Beth Dolan, Cathy Hickey and Kathy McDonough. He had four predeceased brothers, Thomas, John, Robert and James.
Friends and family are welcome to gather at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton Centre on Thursday, October 23 at 9:30AM to remember Charlie. That will be followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:30am. Burial of ashes with military honors to follow at Newton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Charlie's family encourages you to donate to a charity that helps people in need, in honor of Charlie. He regularly donated to Doctors without Borders and Catholic Relief Services.