Russell Duane ‘Papa Smurf’ Hickey

November 27, 1961 – August 13, 2025

Russell Duane ‘Papa Smurf’ Hickey of Milwaukie Oregon passed away on August 13, 2025.

Born on November 27, 1961 in San Francisco, California – he was the beloved son of Otto and Dolores Hickey.

He is survived by his wife – Tawny, his siblings; Trish Frentress, John Knisely and Michael Knisely, his 5 children; Taylor Flowers, Cassidy Everidge, Chris Palen, Alex Dahl and Spencer Dahl; and his 7 grandchildren; Jordan Russell Flowers, Amorla Mae Flowers, Luna Dahl, Finnian Dahl, Joy Price, Nathan Hansen and Ava Palen and his many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his father Otto Hickey and his brother David Knisely.

Russell was a man whose life was defined by loyalty and the love of a blended family. Anytime someone needed a place to stay- he offered his home. When his children needed guidance – he showed up without hesitation. He had a quiet strength and fierce loyalty that made him the foundation for so many.

Russell enjoyed a good golf game and a nice steak with his wife. It was the little things in life that brought him the most pleasure. And most of all- he truly loved teaching new tow truck drivers and sharing his knowledge of the industry. An industry he spent over 30 years doing.

His memory will live on in the lessons he taught, the love he gave and the lives he touched.