Donald R. Hicks, 80 of Belle Center, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020.
He was born in Floyd County, Ky., on Aug. 9, 1940 to the late Elisha and Mallie Marie (Centers) Hicks.
Don married Linda Sutherland on June 18, 1971 and she survives along with three children; Michael (Michele) Hicks of St. Johns, Lisa (Ed) Smith of Raymond, and Rob (Heather) Hicks of Lebanon. Mr. Hicks is also survived by 10 grandchildren; Shane, Kelsey, Kassidy, Hunter (Taylor), Haley, Kelsey, Jaden, Landon, Gabriel, Andrew, two great grandchildren; Alexus and Paeton, brother, Enoch (Paulette-deceased) Hicks of Kenton and sisters; Sharon (John) Riley of W.Va., Charlotte (Terry) Hamm of Kenton and Bessie Risner of Marion.
He was preceded in death by his brothers; Kenneth, Leon, Johnnie, Bill, Albert and Glen Hicks and sisters, Karen Hicks.
He served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy, serving on the USS Stribling. Don enjoyed making wine, fishing, hunting and was an avid Cincinnati Reds fan. He was a former member of the Kenton VFW and the Lima Masonic Lodge F&AM.
Don was also an Amateur Ham Radio enthusiast. He enjoyed attending Naval Reunions to see his old friends but most of all, Don loved his grandchildren and attending their sporting events.
Don was a 25-year heart transplant recipient, to which he and his family were very grateful for and encourage people to choose donation in hopes of giving someone like Don, additional time with their family.
A funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the Schindewolf-Stout-Crates Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends from 11 a.m. Wednesday until the time of service. A private burial will take place at a later date. Full military honors will be conducted by the Kenton Amvets Post 1994.
Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Don to the Wounded Warrior Project. Online condolences can be expressed to the family by visiting stoutcrates.com.