In loving memory of

JOHN W. HICKS
June 4, 1946 - January 1, 2007

John W. Hicks, age 60, of 641 W. Magnetic Street, Marquette, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 1, 2007 at his home following a lengthy illness.

Mr. Hicks was born on June 4, 1946 at Los Angeles, California to the late Willard and Vivian (Butler) Hicks. He was a graduate of Ben Franklin High School in Los Angeles and later received a nursing degree from Northern Michigan University.

John retired from the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas as a medic after spending a career in the military, which included three tours of duty in Vietnam. He and his family moved to Marquette in 1989 from Texas after his retirement.

Johns hobbies included keeping tropical fish and reading.

John is survived by his wife, the former Wendy Marie Savonen who he married on September 4. 1979 in San Francisco, California; one daughter, Traci Hicks at home; a sister, Shirley Garcia of California; one brother-in-law, Craig (Ann) Savonen of Carleton, MI and their children, Benjamin and Candace; also surviving are two other nieces.

A private family memorial service will take place at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home with Bud Holmes of Lake Superior Christian Church officiating. There will be no visitation.

Tributes

Shana Paveglio wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"I love you guys. If there is anything you need me to do, give me a call. John was a great man that all of us learned so much from while working at the Pet Stop. His knoweldge was endless about the most random topics, and I always enjoyed discussing my life and getting his insight. Tracy, please stop by the Pet Stop anytime you want, and I would love to get together sometime soon. My prayers are with you Love Shana Paveglio (906)362-0374"

Steve and Suzanne Standerford wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"Dear Wendy and Traci, We are so sad to hear that you lost John this week. We will always remember his sense of humor and his skill as a nurse. He will be missed by so many. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and hope that you find comfort with family and friends. Warmly, Suzanne and Steve"

jill esterly-jayne wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"Dear Wendy and Tracy, I was shocked and saddened to see John's obiturary in the paper... My deepest sympathy is extended to you and Tracy and the rest of your family... John was such a genuinely nice man...I have so many fond memories of good conversations while grooming Rebel... I am grateful for the honor of knowing him.... I am so sorry you had to lose him... I will keep you both in my prayers... love ...jill esterly-jayne (Rebel's groomer from Gwinn days.... I live in iron mountain now....with my husband tom and my two sons max and alex)"

Patrick J. Kaski wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"All the Pet Stop employees and myself send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. John was a special person to everyone at the Pet Stop (especially Erin and Shana) and will be missed by all. Pat"

Betsy Curtis wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"Dear Wendy and Traci, I worked for a few months with John at Dr. Kroll's office in 2005. I enjoyed working with him. I met you briefly Wendy. John was so devoted to you two. When he shared, it was all about you. He was a very good man who served our country and took his illness in stride. You are in my prayers as you grieve. Sincerely, Betsy Curtis"

Terrie Miller wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"I am sorry to hear about your John passing away. Our prayers are with you today and days ahead in your loss. If you remember your daughters first daycare, Kiddie Kollege, I was director there. Its been a long while since I have seen you but wanted you to know God knows your future and will sustain you in your loss. You are a daughter of the King....HE will provide. Blessings to you all."

Niki and Terry Norman wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"Wendy and Traci, Just heard about John and wanted to send a note telling you that we are very sorry. We will keep you both in our prayers. Wendy, I am always here if you need anything. God Bless you both, Terry and Niki Norman and family"

amber wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"I just heard and am so sorry about your loss. I remember taking Macie to Dr Kroll's office and John making her a balloon face and his sweet smile while he did it, God Bless you both! Sincerely, Amber Mitchell and family"

Traci Hicks wrote on Apr 6, 2009:

"Thank you so much for your condolences. My mom and I appreciate it so much. I know this event took place a long time ago, but I wanted to say thank you for all the support. Love, Traci"