Ward D. Hicks

Ward D. Hicks, 96, a servant of God and loving husband, father, and grandfather, went home to be with his Lord and Savior early Sunday morning, October 27, 2024 at his home following a period of declining health.

Born in New Philadelphia on August 22, 1928, he was the son of the late William Henry Harrison and Jennie Lucille (Corpman) Hicks. He was a 1947 graduate of New Philadelphia High School. 

On December 24, 1949, Ward married his lifelong partner and soulmate, the former Betty Jean Basiletti. From their early beginnings dating after having met in a coffee shop, to the birth of four children, and their unwavering commitment to their church, Betty and Ward shared a beautiful relationship founded on their faith for 65 years.

Ward’s professional career spanned 30 years with IF Sales – Rigid Tool as a machine operator. He was also a member of the B.P.O.E. #510 and the Tuscarawas County Senior Center. Ward loved to bowl and he and his brothers had a team that was inducted into the local bowling hall of fame. He was also an avid golfer, loved to garden and work with wood. Ward shared his time with Goshen Township as a trustee and also worked as a police officer with New Philadelphia for 2 years.

Ward’s spiritual journey was nurtured throughout his lifetime at the First Christian Church in New Philadelphia where he served in a variety of capacities including janitor alongside Betty. 

He will be deeply missed by his children, Dale Hicks of New Philadelphia, Doug (Doreena) Hicks of Dennison, and Jenifer (Keith) Clemens of New Philadelphia; his grandchildren, Chad (Tricia) Hicks of New Philadelphia, Kyle (fiancé, Brandon Troupe) of Colorado, and Eric (Treasur) Luikart of New Philadelphia; his great-grandson, Logan (Peyton) Bitikofer; great-granddaughter, Lyanna Luikart; one expectant great-great-granddaughter; and his siblings, Virgil Hicks and Foster (Roberta) Hicks; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Ward’s family is very grateful for the excellent medical care he received from Melissa Mutschelknaus CNP, FNP, APRN, and the faithful, loving care from his caregiver who became his close friend.

In addition to his parents and wife, Ward was preceded in death by his stillborn daughter, Brenda; siblings, Frank Hicks, Mary Ferrall, Lester Hicks, William Hicks, Grace Kohler and Evelyn Moore

Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 3 to 6 p.m. A service will begin at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel on Thursday with Pastor Jim Borton officiating. Private burial will follow in East Avenue Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Ward may be directed to Crossroads Hospice Charitable Foundation, 10810 E. 45th St., Suite 300, Tulsa, OK, 74146.