~ IN MEMORY ~
Military veteran, DL pilot Von Cate Hickman
June 6, 1940 - October 23, 2023
Notice of passing…..Delta Air Lines pilot, ATL
FCD/Flt Instr., Von Cate Hickman, age 83, of Stockbridge, Georgia. Von is survived by his wife Pat, and by his
children and their families.
https://www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com/obituary/von-hickman
VON'S OBITUARY
Von Cate Hickman, known affectionately
as "PawPaw", age 83, of Stockbridge, Georgia, unexpectedly passed
away on Monday, October 23, 2023. He was born in Knoxville, Tennessee on June
6, 1940, the son of the late Herman Elbert Hickman and Elise Mae Cate Hickman.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Ira R.
Hickman (Red); and his sister, Elizabeth Hancock.
He grew up in a warm and loving
household that instilled in him the values of faith, family, and a strong work
ethic. Von honorably served our country in the United States Air Force where he
continued to gain wisdom. Von worked for Delta Airlines for over 27 years and
finished his career in Flight Control Dispatch. These principles would
shape the remarkable man he would become. His deep and abiding love for Jesus
Christ was evident in every facet of his life, serving as his moral compass and
unwavering source of strength.
Von's love story with his beautiful
wife, Pat, began more than 63 years ago. Their love story was one of
commitment, resilience, and an unbreakable bond that set an example for all who
were fortunate to witness it. Their love was the kind that poets write about
and dreamers long for, an enduring testament to the power of true love and
partnership.
Von was a true southern gentleman, an
exemplar of honesty, intelligence, and kindness. Von's life was a testament to
his unwavering faith, devotion to family, and his enduring love for aviation,
which he shared with countless aspiring pilots as a dedicated flight
instructor.
As a pilot, Von Hickman soared through
the skies, finding a second home among the clouds. He shared his passion for
flying as a dedicated flight instructor, mentoring and inspiring countless
students who would go on to navigate the airways for both leisure and
commercial purposes. The knowledge, wisdom, and enthusiasm he imparted to his
students have left an indelible mark on the world of aviation.
Von's other love was the Berry Hill
Airport, a place that held a special spot in his heart. He spent countless
hours there, not just flying but also forging lifelong friendships with kindred
spirits who shared his passion for aviation. The airport was not just a place
for him; it was a community, a place where he laughed, learned, and shared
stories with friends who became family.
Von is survived by his beloved wife
Pat Hickman; his children, Brian (Brandi) Hickman, Sheila (Rick) Posey, Kim
(Steve) Ledbetter; 8 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and 2
great-great-grandchildren who will forever cherish their "PawPaw" and
the love he shared with them. He also leaves behind one brother, Walter (Jan)
Hickman, and several extended family members. While he may no longer be with us
in person, his spirit, his lessons, and his love will live on in the hearts of
those he leaves behind.
A Funeral Service to honor Von’s life
will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023, beginning 10:00 AM in the East
Chapel of Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors. Pastor Tim Dowdy will officiate
the service. Interment will follow the service at Fairview Memorial Gardens in
Stockbridge, GA. The family will receive friends on Friday, October 27, 2023,
from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, those who
wish, may make a contribution to the Berry Hill Airport, check payable to FOBH LLC,
mailed to P.O. Box 387, Stockbridge, GA 30281 in Von’s memory. Those who wish
may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com. Cannon
Cleveland Funeral Directors, 770-914-1414.
Great instructor. Helped me through 727 FE school. Bill Goeken
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