Patrick Joseph Hickey, Independence, MO, died Sunday, August 10, 2025.  He was 92 years old and lived a life that was nothing short of extraordinary. 

Patrick was born April 25,1933 in Minneapolis, MN to Joseph and Josephine Hickey.  After graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, he went on to earn his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. He proudly served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the Korean War, where he was injured in battle and later honorably discharged. 

Patrick’s career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker II, took him all over the country, helping people and building connections wherever he went. He founded Central States Mental Health Consultants and worked with the U.S. Job Corps—his impact was wide-reaching and deeply felt. 

Patrick wasn’t just accomplished—he was vibrant. He moved to Italy to pursue a career as an opera singer.  While in Italy, he taught two Popes how to speak English. He loved his pets, he had a passion for cooking, crossword puzzles, Notre Dame football, traveling, and cheering on the KC Chiefs. 

Patrick married Emily Brown on October 15, 1989 in Warsaw, MO.   She survives. 

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jim Hickey, brother-in-law Mike Wertz, sister-in-law Judy Wertz, stepdaughter Laurilyn Nelson and great granddaughter, Quinn Raines.

Survivors include his wife, Emily.  Step children, Mark Seeley of Portland, OR, Carrie Rozier (Randy) of Sedalia, MO, Jamie Braden of Blue Springs, MO and Jeff Braden (Kelly) of Liberty, MO.  He was blessed with 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Wayside Waifs: 3901 Martha Truman Rd, Kansas City, MO 64137 or online.

 Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441