Hickok remembered for service to others

MADISON — Former Alderman Steve Hickok was serious about his service and commitment to the citizens of Madison, Mayor Mary Hawkins-Butler said.

“Steve Hickok was one of the finest men I’ve ever known,” Hawkins-Butler said. “He was a man of integrity and character, and Madison is a better place because he served. Madison has lost a true hero. We salute you, sir, and we will be grateful forever to you."

Hickok, a longtime Ward 4 alderman, died on Friday, Feb. 4, due to complications from a stroke. He is survived by his wife Kathy Hickok.

Hickok served in the U.S. Army and retired at the rank of colonel. 

He originally announced his retirement from the board in December 2019 after several decades of service because he moved out of the district. 

Ward 4 Alderman Paul Tankersley took his place in January 2020.

“Steve lived in North Bay as well as Madison, and was on the Homeowner’s Association there,” Tankersley said. “He was instrumental as an alderman with getting things done in Ward 4, such as putting streetlights in North Bay and paving streets. He was selfless and busy all the time. He was a good friend, very active in the community, and always willing to do anything you asked him to do. He was also an avid bike rider, probably rode hundreds of miles every week.”

Hickok served as the board’s resident expert on Bruce Campbell Field, the city’s municipal airport on Old Canton Road.

Ward 1 Alderman Tawanna Tatum was a close friend of Hickok and admired his military service and love for his wife.

“There’s something unique about Steve,” Tatum said. “He had a military background and a very high level of intelligence. His wife Kathy is still a very dear friend. One thing that stood out along with his intelligence and military background, was Steve’s love for his her. He went around and professed his love for her frequently. He will be missed dearly by all of us.”

Tatum recalled how Hickok and his wife would keep a book of cards they gave each other such as happy birthday and Valentine cards, and how they would go to that book and choose cards for the appropriate holidays and reuse the cards.

“They meant so much to me,” Tatum said. “My father was in the Air Force and I am very involved in the military because of that. I know how well they do their jobs extremely well.”