from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Robert W. “Bob” Hickman, 84, of Albion, N.Y., died March 6, 2013, at ECMC in Buffalo after a long illness.

Born on Sept. 4, 1928, in Medina, he was the son of the late William E. and Almeda (Smith) Hickman. He grew up in Medina and graduated from Medina High School in 1945.

Mr. Hickman married the former Fern Gilroy on March 19, 1949, and settled in the West Barre area, raising a son, the late Robert B. Hickman.

He worked as a supervisor in the warehouse of the former Lipton’s in Albion and retired in 1962.

He was a member of the Millville United Methodist Church, American Legion Post 332 of Batavia and served on the Barre Town Board for four years and on the Board of Directors for the Lipton Credit Union.

He enjoyed gardening and race horses. He owned and trained Standardbreds on the Western New York harness racing circuit.

He is survived by his wife, Fern; grandsons, Stephen (Melanie) and William R. (Jamie); great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Isaac, Bailey and Robert; sister, Joyce (Bruce) Heacock; brother, Raymond (Doris); and several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Millville United Methodist Church, 12373 Maple Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103 or ECMC Medical Center, 462 Grider St., Buffalo, NY 14215.

Arrangements were made through the Bates & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina. Visit www.batesandtuttle.com to sign the online register book.