JAMES LAURENCE HICKS

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JAMES LAURENCE HICKS July 4, 1917 - May 28, 2006 With deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather. He was predeceased by his wife Bertie on November 19, 1994. He leaves to cherish many wonderful family memories, son Ken (Jenny) of Portland, OR; daughter Connie (Jim) of Winnipeg; son Ray (Georgette) of Santa Barbara and eight grandchildren, Monica, Elise, Brian, Jennifer, Tricia, James, Laurel and Phillip. Other than his family, Dad's passion was always airplanes. From an early age he built and flew model airplanes. That passion drove him to enlist in the Canadian Air Forces in the Second World War where he flew as a co-pilot, navigator and mid upper gunner. He bravely flew many missions until October 1943 where, in Nottingham, he was seriously injured and entrusted to the hands of the Queen Victoria Hospital where he became part of the infamous Guinea Pig Club , Canadian Chapter, whose members were experimentally treated for burns and disfiguring injuries. Dad was subsequently honored with various medals for his service. After the war, Dad was involved in numerous careers which included the banking, construction and hotel industries. He also formed Hicks-Baker Ltd., a local company. In 1952 he married Mom and together the two of them adventured to build and operate the Harbour View Motel in Kenora for 30 years while wintering in Phoenix where they raised the family. After the business was sold in 1970 Dad built the family cottage, Hicks Haven on Lake of the Woods where we had many wonderful happy times. While at Lake of the Woods Dad accomplished many things, among them helping to uncover a theft ring for which he was honoured with a Commendation award by the O.P.P. Dad's spirit of adventure and joie de vive took his family to such places as Arizona, Texas, Florida, Mexico, Hawaii and Tahiti. He lived life to the fullest and impressed on his children to never quit what you start and to roll with the punches . Dad made friends with everyone whether it was on a beach in Mexico or plane flight and he would talk to anyone, anywhere. He was incredibly resourceful and could build anything out of everything such as a coffee table out of an old wood stove. As tenacious as talented, he built two houseboats, numerous buildings and an ultra light aircraft that he flew. He tried everything before giving up, much to his family's chagrin. He loved a good duck hunt with friends and relatives, loved big band music and was an avid Second World War history buff. He had a wonderful sense of humour which will be remembered and missed by all. Anyone who knew him knew he always lived life on his own terms. Dad most recently resided at the Maples Personal Care Home. We wish to thank all those involved in his care especially caregivers Donna, Vicky, Brian and Diane. A memorial mass to celebrate Dad's life will be held on Thursday, June 1 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Stafford and Corydon, Father Brian Massie S.J. officiating. In lieu of flowers, friends may donate to the Cancer Society. REST IN PEACE DAD AND SAY HI TO MOM IN HEAVEN WE LOVE YOU!! Family Ties Family ties are precious bonds The passing time endears For they begin with memories Of our happy childhood years. Family ties are growing bonds Nourished by love and laughter And a thousand everyday events That are cherished ever after Family ties are lasting bonds That are woven in each heart To keep a family close in thought Together or apart!

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 30, 2006