John Martin Hicks

Des Moines

John Martin Hicks, Professor Emeritus at Drake University, passed away on May 18th.

He was born in Tulsa, OK in 1930 and attended Park College and Indiana University, where he completed his Doctorate in Art Education in 1972. John was a U.S. Navy Veteran during the Korean War. He was married to Mary Ann (Stevens) for 58 years.

He received numerous awards during his distinguished career, including: Art Educators of Iowa Distinguished Service (1993 and 1994), National Art Education Association (NAEA), Western Region Educator of the Year (1990), NAEA Western Region’s President’s Award (1992), NAEA Distinguished Service Award (1994), and World Food Prize Special Appreciation.

Along with being a life-long soccer player, coach, and referee, he was an All-American at Indiana University (1955 and 1956), and started the Drake Soccer Club in 1961.

He is survived by Mary Ann, and two sons: Jon Martin, of St. Paul, MN (with wife Kelly); Scott Shawn, of Kennebunk, ME (with wife Colleen). He is also survived by one grandchild: John Breen, of Kennebunk, ME. John was preceded in death by his brother, Hanne Lane Hicks.

He was actively creating, and inspiring others to create, until the very end.

A Private entombment will take place at Resthaven Mausoleum in West Des Moines. A Celebration of Life event is planned for June 14th at Wesley Acres in Des Moines from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Community Room, with remarks at 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: American Civil Liberties Union or the Iowa Peace Movement Committee.