Gary Hicks

Gary Ray Hicks, 70, of Rome City, Indiana died Friday, July 17, 2026, at his residence.

He was born April 27, 1956, in Goody, Kentucky to Dallas Hicks, Sr. and Ida (Smith) Hicks.

He married Donna Zimmerman. She survives in Topeka.

Gary had worked in local foundries most of his life.

In his free time, he enjoyed working on cars and motors, tinkering with just about anything, and bowling. He had a generous heart and especially loved spoiling both animals and children. The neighborhood kids could always count on Gary for a special treat, whether it was candy or ice cream, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Surviving are two sisters, Clara Lynn Schlabach of Rome City and Alva (Darin) Metzger of Kendallville; a brother, Dallas (Lisa) Hicks, Jr. of Altona; eight nieces and nephews, Teah (Joseph “Joe” Trowbridge) Laymon, Zach Laymon, Jake Laymon, Matthew Schlabach, Tiffany Miller, Dallas (Shariah) Hicks, III, Ashley Nicole (Travis) Tons, and Chelsey (Kathleen Chase) Metzger; five step nieces and nephews, Robert Weber, Matthew (Allen) Samantha) Weber, Rebecca Weber, Jason (Devora) Ice, and Jesse Ice; 21 great-nieces and nephews, Kruize, Bailey, Delainee, Gage, Emmit, Eisley, Anthony, Hailie, Isaiah, Isaac, Xavier, Eli, Michael, Alexis, Devon, Jacob, Kaiden, Dorian, Jaylen, Cora, and Dallas IV.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Amber Lee Hicks; a sister, Girley Mae Burtz; great-niece, Luna Schlabach.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, July 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville

Funeral services will also be on Friday, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Derek Iddings officiating.

Burial will follow at Orange Cemetery near Rome City.

Casketbearers will be Dallas Hicks, III, Darin Metzger, Joe Trowbridge, Matt Schlabach, Zach Laymon, Anthony Laymon, and Travis Tons.

Preferred memorials are to the Noble County Humane Society, 1305 Sherman Street, Kendallville, Indiana.

View a video tribute after Friday or share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com