Richard Hickson

Richard Douglas Hickson 1959-2022

Rick loved being a Firefighter. First deployed as a Smoke Jumper to the Yukon, then establishing himself with the Langley City Fire Department, as a volunteer. These experiences paved the road to his dream job of Firefighter when he joined the Burnaby Fire Department on January 5, 1986. Rick retired at the rank of Fire Captain at Station 2, on January 31, 2017.

Rick lived life to the fullest and had no regrets. Steadfast, diligent and talented are just a few words to describe an individual who touched so many lives. Rick was someone whom everyone relied upon for his caring and incredible abilities. He developed many useful skills, which kept him engaged and excited everyday of his life. Known as Hands On, in The Burnaby Fire Department, this nickname exemplified his ability to learn, tinker and complete any challenge that came his way.

When the tools were set aside and jobs were completed to his standard, Rick was able to embrace his adventurous side with the same level of commitment. An athlete to the core, Rick pursued many activities with fitness and health as the driving force for his involvement. Running, cycling and mountain climbing were just a few of his outdoor passions.

However, what really defined Rick was his love of motorcycles. Rick was a skilled rider, and was the most happiest when riding on twisty, back country roads. Riding was like a high-speed chess match to Rick, using PACE, and finesse to ride swiftly and safely on the roads. He surrounded himself with like-minded riders, and a strong brotherhood of riders formed over the many years of motorcycling.

Pancreatic Cancer