Robert Dale Hickok
January 19, 1930 - January 17, 2016
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Robert Dale Hickok
January 19, 1930 - January 17, 2016
Obituary
Bob Hickok peacefully passed away on January 17, 2016 two days before his 86th birthday. He began his life on January 19, 1930 in Bellingham, WA, born to George and Clara Hickok. He grew up in the city of his birth and graduated from Bellingham High School in 1948. He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth Pearl Owens, in 1950 and they spent over 53 loving years together until she passed on August 30, 2004.
Bob enlisted in the US Marine Corps, completed his four years of duty, obtained the rank of sergeant, and served honorably in the Korean War. After his discharge in 1952, he returned to Bellingham to rejoin his family. He accepted a job at the Eureka Police Department located in California in 1954 where he rose to the rank of sergeant. In 1967, he accepted a job with the Humboldt County District Attorney’s office. Among his many accomplishments during this time were graduating from the FBI National Academy, being a Criminal Law Instructor at College of the Redwoods, assisting in the development of the local police academy, and receiving many oratory and teaching awards. Additionally, he attended college to obtain his legal degree, passing the California Bar Exam in 1978. He became a Deputy District Attorney, prosecuting primarily felony cases. He retired from Humboldt County in 1983 and went into private practice. Two years later he accepted a position in Mendocino County as Assistant DA. He retired from that position ten years later at the age of 65 and returned to Eureka. During the following years he did a generous amount of volunteer work for the Humboldt County Judicial System and enjoyed many years of retired life with his family. In 2003, Bob and Betty moved home to Bellingham, WA where they became active members of the Birchwood Presbyterian Church.
The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Marines never left him, as was seen regularly both in his work and personal life. Bob enjoyed camping, coaching Babe Ruth baseball, his summer home in Redway, and most of all spending time with his family. He was a dedicated family man who never hesitated to share his love and support with those close to him. Bob was dearly loved by all and will truly be missed.
Bob is survived by his children, Robert Jr. and wife Mary, Eugene Craig, Barbara Olson and husband Evan, Sharon Mitchell and husband Nick; eight grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his brothers Donald Hickok and wife June, Gerald Hickok and wife Donna; sister Nancy Hickok; half-brother George Hickok; his aunt Janet Hickok; and numerous nieces and nephews.
There will be a memorial service held at Moles Farewell Tributes – Greenacres, 5700 Northwest Dr., Ferndale, at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 23, 2016.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be sent to either Whatcom County Hospice House or Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Memorial Service
- Date & Time: January 23, 2016 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Moles Farewell Tributes - Greenacres
- Location: 5700 Northwest Dr Ferndale, WA 98248 - (Get Directions)
9 responses to Robert Dale Hickok
Mike Losey says:
January 17, 2016
I was 18 years old when I first had an introduction to law enforcement class at CR where Bob was the instructor. That was many years ago and I am retired after 34 years in law enforcement, the last thirteen years from the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office. I will never forget Bob helping me on many murder cases throughout my career and even when he came to Eureka to visit, he would stop in at the office and we would discuss new and old cases. He always had an encouraging word and great ideas as to how to go about an investigation. He will be missed by all who knew him. My sympathy to the Olsen family who will certainly be hurting from his loss as well as his entire family. Thanks Bob for being a friend and mentor!
AB says:
January 17, 2016
I am sorry for your loss. It is difficult to deal with the loss of someone you love. 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 reminds us that God is always there to comfort us. I pray this helps you and your family.
Jeneka Hickok says:
January 17, 2016
I’ve always been so proud to call him Grandpa. He was a man of many great accomplishments and even more fascinating, mind-boggling tales. He taught us many things but most of all how wonderful it is to be a part of a big, tight knit family. Although he was a rather reserved person he always managed to make those in his company feel like the most important thing on earth. He was a true gentleman. I am undeniably sad that I will no longer get to hug him and see his sweet face (aside from cherished photos) however I carry peace in my heart knowing that he is with his / our beloved Elizabeth once again.
Brenda Haskins says:
January 17, 2016
Mr Hickok you were such a sweet part of my life…I remember sitting around the table and eating dinner and doing the usual chores around the house…you always made me feel like part of the family…I remember when you were doing your studies for the bar and you always seemed so gentle and steadfast when I know us kids were probably causing you alittle distress :)…not me of course..thank you for being in my life…heaven is fortunate to have you…see you again…love you Brenda
Keri & Jim Clark says:
January 17, 2016
Dear Barbara and Hickok Family ~As you know only too well, Bob Hickok was a wonderful person who loved his family, community and humanity and served all well. We send our love and sympathy to you and those close to him. We know how much he will be missed. You were truly blessed to be part of that warm circle of love and respect that binds generations and is passed on to the next. Take heart. That is where Bob now resides. Keri & Jim Clark