Mack Robert Hickman, 80, of Temple, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at a local hospital. Born on April 24, 1945, in Warren, Arkansas, to William Proctor Hickman and Ruby Lee (Grider) Hickman, Mack lived a life defined by service, dedication, and a deep love for his family.
Mack grew up in LaPorte, Texas, and went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army. He enlisted on February 1, 1966, and retired after 20 years of honorable service on February 28, 1986. During his military career, he trained as a Military Policeman at Fort Gordon, Georgia, and later served as an Agent with the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. He achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CWO3), a reflection of his leadership, integrity, and commitment. His years of service took him around the world, including assignments in Vietnam, Panama, Germany, Japan, and across the United States.
Even after retiring from the Army, Mack’s desire to serve did not end. He continued his work as an investigator with the Department of Defense at Fort Hood, Texas, where he served for many more years before retiring in 2007.
While stationed in Japan, Mack met and married Hiroko Kurata on April 4, 1968. They shared 46 years of marriage before her passing in December 2014.
Above all else, Mack loved his family. He spent countless years dancing socially, cheering on his granddaughters at dance competitions and barrel races, and later found great joy watching his great-grandsons play baseball. He also loved to travel and made it a priority to experience the world alongside those he loved—whether on cruises, trips to Disney, or visits to places across the country.
Mack is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Janice Hickman; his granddaughters, Kaitlynn Hickman, and Brianna Atha and her husband, Preston, along with their sons Xander, Xaiden, and Grayson Atha, who brought him immense pride and joy. In his later years, he shared a special companionship with Faye Wallace. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Edna Hickman, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hiroko, his brother John Hickman, and his parents.
A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Taylor’s Valley Baptist Church, with a viewing from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery will be held at a later date.
Mack was loved by many and will be missed beyond measure. He lived a life devoted to others, and his presence left a lasting impact on those around him. His legacy of service, resilience, and devotion will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made in Mack’s honor.
