North Sydney
It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the passing of Kenneth ‘Earl’ Hickman on Friday, August 9, 2024, age 81, at home in North Sydney.
Born and raised in Glace Bay, Earl was the son of the late Percival ‘Lloyd’ Hickman and Mary Ellen Mobley. He spent his youth playing baseball, getting up to mischief, and the odd fishing trip to Catalone Gut.
Like many before and since, Earl struck out for the big city of Toronto as a young man but returned to his beloved Cape Breton after a few years to raise his expanded family. Upon his return, he began working at Devco at the Roundhouse in Glace Bay beside his father, Lloyd, where he spent many years working hard but also getting up to more mischief.
Earl retired early and moved with his loving wife, Gail to Framboise, there to enjoy his days hunting, fishing, and playing 45s, darts, and cribbage for whatever unique prizes were on offer for the winner. His pantry remained empty, so we don’t think he won often or caught many fish!
Earl was always there to lend a hand, go out for some “fishing” or to be a partner in crime for anyone getting up to shenanigans. His sense of humour was notorious, and it will be sorely missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Earl is survived by sons, Kenneth (Norma) and Robert (Valerie); daughter, Rhona Sullivan (Shawn); stepsons, Raymond Powell, and Morrison Powell (Sandra MacLeod); stepdaughters, Darlene Powell and Raylene Carroll (Basil); sixteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brother, Fred (Shirley); as well as nieces, nephews, and many dear friends, and fishing buddies.
Earl was predeceased by his wife, Gail, and his parents, Lloyd and Mary.
Cremation has taken place. A graveside service for the late Earl Hickman will be held in Framboise at the St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Cemetery on September 14, 2024, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating.
To honour Earl’s memory, give a hug to a friend or family member, do a kind deed for someone who needs it, or make a donation in his memory to the charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
l
Sorry for the loss
Earl’s family, my sincere condolences on the passing of Earl. He was a nice and kind man. Earl and Gail were very good neighbours who were always willing to lend a hand when needed. May he Rest In Peace❤️
Condolences to Earl’ family at this sad time.
Dear Rhona and family, sorry for your lost of this amazing man, my condolences for the lost of you love ❤️
My sincere condolences to the Hickman family…Earl was a good friend of mine….did some fishing with earl and also worked with earl on Devco Rly. 25+years. I was used to seeing Earl and Gail sitting in the pews at church when I would look out from the stage. I’m really saddened to hear of his passing and will miss his booming laughter.
Herb Allen
Deepest sympathy to all of Earl’s family.