Robert "Bob" Harold Hicks

Bob was born on March 24, 1939, in Auburn, California. He pursued higher education with dedication, earning an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Sierra College, a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance/Economics from California State University, and a Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.) degree in General Law from La Salle University.

Bob’s professional career reflected a lifelong commitment to public service and excellence. He worked for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, the U.S. Housing Administration, and the State of California. He later founded his own business, Professional Appraisal and Realty Services, which evolved into Professional Appraisal Services, a company he owned and operated for more than 30 years.

Highly respected in his field, Bob held the highest real estate appraisal designation, the MAI designation, and was a member of the Appraisal Institute. Among many professional credentials, he also maintained his Real Estate Broker’s License throughout his career. Bob specialized in aviation and airspace valuations, expert testimony, and depositions, earning a reputation for precision, integrity, and expertise.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob lived a life full of adventure and curiosity. He loved to travel and was rarely without an RV or a trip planned. Over the years, he visited every U.S. state and countless historic landmarks, and traveled to more than 30 countries, including destinations throughout Europe, Asia, China, Japan, and the Holy Land.

Bob also had a deep love for the ocean and traveled on many cruise ships throughout his life. These voyages allowed him to combine his passion for travel and the sea, taking him to destinations such as South America, the Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, and through the Panama Canal—experiences he greatly enjoyed and fondly remembered.

Bob also had a lifelong passion for amateur radio. His interest began while working as a radio repairman at McClellan Air Force Base and continued throughout his life. From his “radio room,” he connected with people across continents, often sending Morse code or holding late-night conversations with fellow radio operators around the world. Friends knew him as the “King of the Hill.” He proudly served as a member of the FEMA emergency response team, assisting with communications during emergency situations.

Music was another lifelong joy for Bob. He played in the Placer High School marching band and carried his love of music with him throughout his life. He especially enjoyed attending the Dixie Land Jubilee each year, a tradition he looked forward to and cherished.

Faith was central to Bob’s life. He was a devoted member of Gideons International and attended church regularly. Bob read his Bible daily, and the reading of The Daily Bread was a long-held and meaningful tradition in his household. He was a believer in Jesus Christ and accepted Him as his Lord and Savior, guiding his life with faith, humility, and service.

Demonstrating independence and determination from a young age, Bob purchased his first home at 17 and his second at 21—early signs of the drive and foresight that defined his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Harold William and Mary Elizabeth Hicks; his sisters, Mary Lou Brashear and Lois Carol Fair; and his beloved wife, Esther Jeanette Hicks, to whom he was married for 46 years until her passing in 2007.

He later married Sandra Louise Hicks, and they shared 17 years of marriage.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Mary, and her husband, Roy Chirigotis; his son, Matthew, and wife, Jenny; his son, David, and wife, Patricia; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and his nieces, Kathy and Milinda Fair.

A graveside service will be held at Auburn Public Cemetery, located at 1040 Collins Drive, Auburn, California 95603.

Bob will be remembered for his strong faith, intellect, adventurous spirit, love of music, dedication to his family, and his lifelong passion for learning, travel, the ocean, and connecting with people around the world.