Paul A. Hickfang

HICKFANG Paul A. Hickfang, 82, passed away Friday, February 6, 2009 at Riverside Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Laura Lee; sons, Chase and Gerry (Janie); daughter, Carrie Lee; grandsons, Tim and Max; granddaughter, Morgan. Paul received his bachelor of Music Degree from the University of Texas at Austin, and his Masters Degree from the University of Michigan. Paul retired from The Ohio State University where he was the Director of Opera and Voice. Prior to that, he held similar positions at East Carolina University and The University of North Carolina Greensboro. He toured with Boris Goldovsky Opera Group. He also sang with many symphonies including the Columbus Symphony and the Honolulu Symphony. Paul was also a Fulbright Scholar and spent 28 years in the Air Force where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Paul never really retired. For the past 22 years he enjoyed teaching voice privately out of his home, being an active Board member of Opera Columbus, and being actively involved in the Irma Cooper Opera Columbus International Voice Competition. He also owned and operated Columbus Opera Tours, as well as being a Kiwanian and delivering meals on wheels. Paul was an avid promoter of opera. If you feel so inclined you may make a contribution in his name to Opera Columbus.