Gertrude Luise Hickman

With full hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we remember a woman who embraced every moment with energy, warmth, and an open heart.

Gertrude "Gert" Luise Hickman or as she was lovingly known as Granny/Granny Gert of Battle Creek, Michigan unexpectedly passed away on April 10th, 2026.

She was born on March 16, 1938, to Lawrence and Luise (Schneckenberger) Koster.

A graduate of Marshall High School in 1956. She enjoyed a long and fulfilling career at Kellogg’s where she worked in their payroll department as a supervisor of hourly payroll. After retiring from Kellogg’s she was a proud and active member in the 25 year club.

She is survived by her brothers, Larry (Louise) Koster, Gary Koster, daughters Gayle (Douglas) Rial, Gerrie (Brian) Petch, step children Mary Lee (Andy) Norris, Jerry Hickman, Ellen Hickman, Karen (John) Thompson, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents Lawrence and Luise Koster, her husband Denver Hickman, step son Chris Hickman, sister in laws Ita Koster and Terry Dowler, and special friend Morris (Smitty) Smith.

Granny lived life to the fullest, never missing a social event and always ready for the next adventure—whether it was a bus trip with friends, a lively evening at the casino, or a simple but meaningful family gathering. She loved fiercely, especially her family, and showed it in countless ways: never missing a birthday, always choosing the perfect card, and making sure those she loved felt celebrated.

She was a traveler in the truest sense—proudly having seen all 50 states, collecting not just destinations but stories, friendships, and memories along the way. Wherever she went, she was a stranger to no one. Her gift for connection made every room brighter, every gathering fuller, and every person felt seen.

An athlete at heart, she was a Hall of Fame bowler, an avid golfer and she always had a game on the TV. She simply loved to play—whether it was bowling, golfing, or sitting around the table laughing over Dominos, Phase 10, or Uno with her dear friends and family.

She was also a devoted sports fan who cheered proudly for MSU, U of M, the Detroit Tigers, and the Detroit Lions. Game days were always better with her enthusiasm, and her loyalty never wavered.

She was a Master Gardener who found joy and pride in her flowers and time outdoors.

Granny gave generously of her time as a volunteer at the bird sanctuary and was a member of the Battle Creek Society of Artists. Her creativity shined through her painting groups and projects, where she expressed her love by giving homemade gifts.

She cherished traditions and experiences, from camping trips with family to walking the Mackinac Bridge—an accomplishment she proudly achieved at the age of 87, a testament to her strength and determination.

She also valued connection beyond family, forming lasting friendships through her involvement with the Kellogg retirees and the many circles she brought together throughout her life.

Granny often shared her favorite saying, one that perfectly reflected her spirited and social nature: “He who hoots with the owls shall soar with the eagles in the morning.”

To know her was to know joy, laughter, and unwavering love. She taught those around her how to live fully, love deeply, and show up—again and again—for the people and moments that matter most.

Her legacy lives on in every shared story, every blooming garden, every game played in good company, and every life she touched so effortlessly.

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 24 from 5 to 8 at Squirrel Hollow Golf Course.