Nora Hickey

**Nora Hickey: A Life Full of Love and Family**

Nora Hickey, age 86, of Beach Park and formerly of Highland Park/Highwood, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 26, 2024, surrounded by her family in the comfort of her home. Born on May 24, 1938, in Modena, Italy, Nora was the cherished daughter of Edward and Maria D. (Lugari) Ori. In June 1948, when she was just 10 years old, the Ori family immigrated to Highland Park, where they would build a new life.

On January 15, 1966, Nora married the love of her life, James Patrick Hickey, in Waukegan, Illinois. Together, they created a loving home in Highland Park, where they enjoyed a wonderful life filled with family and friendship. Nora dedicated part of her life to the family business, Sunnyland Restaurant, in Highwood from 1967 to 1975 and later worked at Frank's Nursery & Crafts in Deerfield until its closure in September 2004. 

Nora was deeply involved in her community and enjoyed being part of a women’s traveling bowling league through Strike and Spare in Highland Park in 1958. She was also an active member of the former Women of the Moose, Highland Park Chapter, and the Giovanni Italia Club. Nora's vibrant spirit was reflected in her many hobbies; she loved playing cards with friends, was an avid crafter, and cultivated a beautiful garden that brought joy to all who saw it.

A true embodiment of love, Nora’s love language was food. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel at home, and no guest ever left hungry from her table. Known for her incredible cooking, she poured love into every dish, whether it was homemade pasta, pizza, or baked goods. If you visited her home, you could expect to be offered plate after plate, with the prompt, "You still have dessert!"

Above all, Nora’s greatest joy in life was being known as Amma by her beloved grandchildren. They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Nora is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, James; her two daughters, Jeannie (Sandy) McLaughlin and Suzanne Ross, both of Kenosha, WI; and her son, Jimmy (Dee) Hickey of Gurnee. She was a proud grandmother to Kevin Ross of Kenosha; Jamie (Ben) Chaffee of Kenosha; Stephy (Kevin) Galindez of Northbrook; Amber Hickey of Muncie, IN; Julie Magiera of Milwaukee, WI; and Brandon Hickey of Gurnee, IL. Nora also delighted in her great-grandchildren: Charlie, Dakota "DJ," and Elsie.

She is further survived by her brother, Joseph (the late Ursula) Ori of Highwood; her sister, Susie (Bob) Smith of Gurnee, IL; nieces Tracey (David) Fontana and the late DeAnn Kaesler; nephews Jimmy (Melissa) Smith and Joey (Tina) Smith; as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews. Nora is also survived by her two beloved fur babies, Mandy and Mimi.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024, from 2 to 6 PM with an service at 5 PM with Fr. Michael F. McMahon officiating at Seguin & Symonds Funeral Home, located at 858 Sheridan Road, Highwood, IL. A private inurnment will take place at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.

Nora Hickey will be remembered for her generosity, warmth, and the love she shared with all who knew her. May her memory continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

In honor of Nora, a devoted Chicago Cubs fan who witnessed their historic World Series win within her lifetime, we invite everyone to celebrate her life by wearing Chicago Cubs attire. Let's come together to cherish her memory and share the joy she found in the game.

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