James Patrick Joseph Hickey was born 19 July 1972 in Sydney, Nova Scotia. He grew up in Port Hawksbury, Nova Scotia. Upon high school graduation, he attended Cape Breton University graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1995. After several years working in the private sector, he enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces on 17 January 2002 as an army logistics officer. Following completion of basic and language training, he was posted for a short period of time to CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick, followed by a posting to 2 Service Battalion in Petawawa, Ontario where he deployed on Operation STRUCTURE, the armed forces response to the tsunamis that battered Southeast Asia in December of 2004. In 2006 he was posted to Ottawa where he filled several different military roles, deployed to Afghanistan, and deployed on his second humanitarian mission, this time to Haiti. While in Ottawa, he married his sweetheart of eight years, Nicole Julliette Viau. They would later become the proud parents of two lovely daughters, Emma, born in Ottawa and Bethany, born in New Brunswick. The next 13 years would see the family move three more times across the country finally landing back in Ottawa. James often spoke fondly of his wife and daughters and the joy and excitement they would bring into his life. He was a loving father, a patriotic officer, and a faithful friend who humbly served his family, his country, and many others abroad. James is survived by his wife Nicole, daughters Emma and Bethany, parents John and Betty, and six siblings, Elizabeth (Steve), Patricia (Jim), Susan (Mike), Kelly (Ted), John and Raymond (Ashley). Flowers may be sent to the Beechwood Cemetery at 280 Beechwood, Ave, Ottawa ON, K1L 8A6. In lieu of flowers, an education savings fund has been established for his daughters and the funds can be donated via etransfer to emmabethanyhickey@gmail.com. or deposited at any TD Canada Trust Bank to banking details: Transit 40891 Institution 004 Account 6289228.
Digital Guestbook
Angel MacEachern
Andrew Vivian
I worked with James at CFB Gagetown and we connected as bluenosers. I admired that he was so passionate and enthusiastic about everything he was involved in. Rest in peace, James.
Dean Sutherland
Jimmy was a great guy. He always had a smile and kind word.. Wasn't many fellas around like him.. RIP
Lori-Ann (Deveaux) Betts
Deepest condolences to the Hickey family. Sending you all prayers and strength for the days ahead.
Marc Auclair
Sincere condolences to all the family and friends. l am so sorry for your loss and we are losing a gentleman, nice and excellent member of the CAF.
Adnan Benmosbah
I was shocked and saddened to hear this news of James’ passing. Such a shock to lose an excellent officer and friend. James will be remembered so fondly. My deepest condolences to the Hickey family and his wife and children.
Josée Scott
My deepest condolences to you and your loved ones during this time of grief. I am deeply sadden by this news. I had the pleasure to work with James and everyday he would take the time to chat and he always made me laugh. He always talked about his daughters and how proud he was of the both of them. He was such a great person to be around. My heart goes out to you all at this difficult time. Rest in Peace James.
Robbin Dove
James was a great human being; kind and committed to his family, work, friends and colleagues. He will be sorely missed but fondly remembered. Rest easy, James.
Mark and Dora Brazeau
Nicole, Emma and Bethany and family, our sincere condolences for your loss. Sending hugs, love and prayers.
Ernest Choy
I was fortunate enough to work with James for a time in Ottawa. His dedication and professionalism to the CAF was unparalleled. Although he worked long and hard hours, he always had a smile on his face and had time to support others. He would share stories about his daughters and it was clear how proud he was of both of them. James was a great colleague and family man and will be greatly missed by all. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Such very sad news. This picture certainly captures the man I briefly worked with. Never scorn on his face, quite the opposite ALWAYS. Polite, respectful, honest and wise beyond his years. My sincerest sympathies to all who knew him. To his family, near and far, may the great provider forge a path forward, while embracing you with peace. I am so sorry for your loss.