SOUTH PORTLAND — John B. Fickett, 80, died March 8, at Mercy Hospital in Portland.

He was born at home Sept. 4, 1935, and raised in Portland, the son of Warren and Doris Fickett. Fickett spent his childhood on Munjoy Hill, attending local schools, making mischief with his brothers and sister, and courting his future wife, Mary Robinson.

Fickett graduated from Portland High in 1953 and started a 44-year career with Day’s Jewelry on Congress Street, becoming their head jeweler and diamond setter. In 1955, Fickett and Robinson were married; Fickett was a judicious with his money and the couple soon had enough to purchase their own home in South Portland and start a family.

Fickett loved the sea and boats of all kinds and was happiest on or near the water. For a time, he and his brother, Richard, co-owned a lobster boat and had many family outings on Casco Bay, while summers were spent sailing on Sebago Lake. Fickett loved to fish, and would often go down to the pier to “drown some worms” and watch the boats go by. On hot July days, he would pack an Italian sandwich and head out on the mail boat run to catch the breeze and feel the salt spray.

Fickett is survived by his wife of 60 years; his daughter, Zahira Duvall; his son, Peter Fickett; a brother, Richard Fickett; and several grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, March 19, at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Church in South Portland. At Fickett’s request, there will be no visiting hours or burial ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alpha-1 Foundation at Alpha1.org.

Fickett


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