William Francis Hicks

William (Bill) Francis Hicks, 90, of Fort Wayne, peacefully passed away Thursday, September 8, 2016. Born June 3, 1926 in Lafayette, Indiana. He attended Lafayette Jefferson High School. He served in World War II as a member of the US Marine Corps, was injured at the Battle of Okinawa and awarded a Purple Heart. He is a proud graduate of Purdue University. He spent many years teaching and coaching at Central Catholic High School in Fort Wayne, and then worked in real estate until his retirement. He also volunteered at Ms. Virginia House. He was blessed with 62 years of marriage to Barbara (Otte) Hicks. He loved his faith, family and friends. He was a strong supporter of St. John the Baptist and Bishop Luers High School.

He is survived by wife, Barbara, sister, Lorie Crowe, son, Timothy (Denise) Hicks and daughters, Elaine (Thom) Maher, Angela (Rich) Beil and Tracy (Alex) Choka; and 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Henriette Hicks, brothers, Jack and Thomas Hicks, sister, Mary Kearney; and his son William (Billy) Hicks.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with visitation from 10-11. Visitation also Sunday from 4-8 at Klaehn, Fahl and Melton F.H. 6424 Winchester Rd. with a vigil service at 7:30 p.m. Burial in The Catholic Cemetery, Preferred memorials to Bishop Luers High School, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church or MS Virginia Mission House. www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com