Gary Hickman 1941-2024

Gary Lain Hickman, born Aug. 11, 1941, in Holton, passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Port St. Lucie, Fla., at the age of 82.

He is survived by life partner Loraine Thompson of Fort Pierce, Fla.; a son, Arlain Hickman (Jennifer) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; a daughter, Lori Roth (Matt), Orlando, Fla.; seven grandchildren; a brother, Kin Hickman of Oskaloosa; a sister-in-law, Arlena Hickman; a nephew, Terry Hickman (Lenney) of Cincinatti, Ohio; and a niece, Amanda Claypole (Kin) of Topeka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Adeline Hickman of Topeka; a brother, Lenney Hickman of Acworth, Ga.; and a sister-in-law, LeAnna Hickman.

Gary held three bachelor’s degrees and a master’s degree from Oregon State and Utah State universities. He had a lifelong career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, retiring at age 52.

He lived life to the fullest, cruising with Loraine, visiting more than 100 different countries and pursuing his passion of hunting and deep-sea fishing with a 630-lb. blue marlin as his personal best in Hawaii. He loved the outdoors and the conservation of it. He was a life member of the NRA and many other naturalist organizations.

Gary requested cremation and no services. A memorial stone will be placed at Buck’s Grove Cemetery west of Holton.

(PAID OBITUARY)