Carole Rose Hickman, a beloved matriarch whose boundless love and kindness touched countless lives, peacefully departed this world on March 29, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 27, 1938, Carole’s life exemplified the beauty of family, community, and faith, leaving behind a legacy of joy and service cherished by all who knew her.
Carole began her professional journey after graduating from Western High School in 1956, working as a stenographer at Cadillac Motors, where her intelligence and gracious demeanor soon elevated her position to a private stenographer. Her true calling emerged on June 6th, 1959, as she married her high school sweetheart, Roger Hickman. Together they started their large family in 1961, with the birth of their firstborn daughter. Soon after, Carole was expecting twins and then left her career to focus on cultivating a family. In 1976 the family moved to Rose City, Michigan.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Roger Hickman of Rose City; her daughter, Dawn Hickman of Lincoln Park; sons Roger (Janis) Hickman of Southgate, Randy (Michelle) Hickman of Redford, Danny (Rianan) Hickman of Chesaning, and her daughter Melissa (Christopher) Hickman of Holland. Carole’s love also embraced her grandchildren, Bridget and Devon, and great-grandchild, Mikaylee, all of whom brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. Howard Peschke of Southgate. Carole was preceded in death by her loving parents Lucille and Howard Peschke, whose values of family and faith she carried throughout her life.
Carole’s passion for life extended into her community involvement. As the local Queen of the Red Hat Society, she brought joy to many with her vibrant personality and zest for life. A dedicated member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Rose City, Michigan, Carole found much joy in the fellowship. She cultivated long-lasting, meaningful friendships that were an important part of her life.
Travel was a source of great pleasure for Carole, particularly the many treasured trips throughout the years with her daughter, Melissa. Her motto was, “If you are going, take me with you!”. An avid lover of animals, she spent a great deal of her time taking care of strays and adopting many of them throughout the years. She especially loved cats, with several of them leaving a mark on her heart.
Carole loved her collections of antique tea sets, figurines, postcards, magnets, depression glass, movie star memorabilia, etc. The list is long. She loved to take pictures and was often making prints to mail to loved ones. She loved to shop and find “little treasures”. She made every holiday special, especially Christmas, with her countless hours of wrapping the prettiest packages for those she loved.
Carole was the “world’s greatest mother and grandmother” with endless love and kindness. There was nothing more important to her in this world than her family, which she loved deeply. She has left an indelible mark on the world, one that will be cherished in the hearts of loved ones forever.
A visitation for Carole will be held at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in Rose City on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Pastor John Soyster will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose City Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rea Family Animal Shelter in Ogemaw County, MI.
Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
