HOWARD MELVYN HICKS

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

• I only found out about Howard's passing last evening. It really didn’t hit me till later that evening. I spent a sleepless night, many tears, and many good memories. First condolences to Grace and family. Because of their family closeness I know the loss is unbearable. As teenagers Howard and I were inseparable. I loved him as a brother. Of the memories that passed through my mind last night one seems to stick out in my mind. I would like to pass it on, I’m sure Howard would remember this and we would joke about it in later years. When we were teenagers Howard would drop around and on several occasion with a pair of drum sticks, and a balloon. He would put the balloon between his knees and tap away with the drumsticks. A bit irritating at times, but for me that tapping had a strange attraction. Anyways across the street from me lived Bob Swarts of “uncle Bob and Aylmer” TV show. Bob was not only a Tv personality but also a radio person, In his basement he had two turntables and radio transmitting equipment. Long story short I inherited the radio stuff, put it in my basement, hooked it up to a radio in my bedroom, and Howard and I would take turns being a radio announcer. My interest waned, but for some unknown reason I was attracted to the drum sticks and balloon. In short we made an exchange. The rest is history. Howard went into radio amongst other things and I became a drummer. We lost contact for many years, but met again and renewed our friendship, and along with Howard's singing ability and my mediocre playing ability we spent several enjoyable years playing in bands together. I will miss him tremendously and the brotherly love we had for each other will last forever. “Stix “ - Posted by: Jim McEwen (Friend and fellow musician) on: Nov 19, 2022

• Dear Grace and family, Sending comforting hugs on the passing of Howard. I enjoyed listening to all your wonderful trips that you enjoyed, gone to fast. Take care. - Posted by: JAN ROCHELLE (tax lady/friend) on: Nov 02, 2022

• I had the pleasure of meeting Howard in the 90’s at River Elm School. I remember his wit, creativity and discussions on music. Every child should be so lucky to have a teacher like Howard in their life. My deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Heidi (Colleague ) on: Oct 29, 2022

• Grace, we are so surprised and deeply saddened by Howard's passing. We loved everything about Howard, but his sheer joy of life, and the sincere love of friends stand out the most. We offer you our deepest sympathies and know that a shining star has gone out of all of our lives with Howard's passing. We can hear him singing "I'll be seeing you in all the old familiar places" especially for you during this very hard time. - Posted by: Linda and Menno Peters (Friends) on: Oct 22, 2022

• Grace and family, I am very saddened to hear of Howard's passing. Howard and I were colleagues my first year of teaching at Weston School. I fondly remember Howard and his quick wit and humour. He would come into the staff room, make some cryptic comment and leave. Had all of us scratching our heads. Loved it! Yes, Howard loved his music. He brought his drum kit into his classroom and entertained the kids. They thought their teacher was the coolest! My deepest condolences. - Posted by: June Pospishell (former teaching colleague at Weston School) on: Oct 22, 2022

• Dear Grace, sorry to read about the passing of Howard. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Orest & Margaret Fedorchuk (Cousin ) on: Oct 22, 2022