My brother, Lawrence Herman Hicks, was born June 19, 1933, in Haddam, Kansas to Orra and Mary (King) Hicks. He died on Aug. 31, 2024, peacefully at home in Mesa, Arizona surrounded by family.

Lawrence attended South Bend schools and graduated from SBHS in 1951. He was in basketball, track and played for and was on the winning team for SB State Championship Football Game 1950-51.

He married Mabel Hubbard and they had two children: Larry and Laurel. They divorced. He married Hazel Rhodes and they had a blended family with the addition of Allen, Kevin, and Laurie. Lawrence and Hazel celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 9, 2024.

Lawrence held many jobs, he first worked in the woods for our dad’s logging company, then at Coast Oyster Co in South Bend, Aberdeen City Water Co, owned and operated Twin Harbor Chimney Sweep, owned and operated a log truck, worked for maintenance companies, and after he retired, he continued to do home repairs for senior citizens. He was a perfectionist in his work.

He had many qualities: made inventions, could solve problems including construction and mechanical, known for his beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, love of his dogs Dallas and Daisy, love of children, loved to tease, and love of life.

He is survived by his wife, Hazel; daughter, Laurel Hicks (Joe) Van Orsdol; stepdaughter, Laurie (Dave) Timothy; stepson, Kevin (Kelly) Rhodes; sister, Doris (Hicks) Busse; niece, Kelly Zakel (Dale) Larson; nephew, Darcy Zakel; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, Tom Marriott; son, Larry; stepson Allen; brothers James and Raymond and nephew, Shawn Zakel.

He will be deeply missed and in our loving memories.

There will be no service by his request.