Keith E. Hickling

Keith Edwin Hickling, born March 30, 1942 passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of almost 58yrs, Mary Hickling of Harpursville, NY, his three daughters: Julie (Mark Negovan), Lisa (Jim Brezicky) and Jennifer (David Kite) as well as 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Keith always said he was just a “simple farm boy”. He was born in Bainbridge, NY, and built a family home in Harpursville on the same farm where he grew up. He graduated from Harpursville Central schools, and started working for Singer Link during the summers while attending University of Buffalo, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering. He had a brilliant mind and worked on many defense contracts designing and building simulators for programs from Apollo through the B2 Stealth bomber. In 1998, he was forced into an early retirement after a stroke, but never stopped thinking like an engineer.

Keith loved the outdoors, his Harley motorcycle and soft ice cream. He and Mary spent their retirement enjoying all the world had to offer, including visiting his ancestral home in Hickling, England. He loved spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren.

Join the family for Calling Hours on Aug 2, 2022 from 9-11 at J. F. Rice Funeral Home, 150 Main Street, Johnson City, NY with a luncheon at My Uncle’s Place (Keith’s favorite burgers) in Hillcrest to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Keith’s name.

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