George E. Hicks, 79

George Hicks was born in Spokane, Wash., on Aug., 18, 1937. He passed away May 30, 2017. His parents were Roger and Cap Hicks. He attended Finch Grade School and North Central High School.

He married his best friend and high school sweetheart, Caryl; they were married 62 years. The most important thing to George was the love of his life, Caryl, and his two beloved daughters, Debbie and Connie.

He worked for the state of Idaho starting at a weigh station then transferring to Idaho State Police and ending as a resident patrol officer in Bonners Ferry. He was a master pistol shot and was named to the Gover-nor’s Ten giving him the opportunity to travel and shoot competitively. He was an avid snowmobiler, snow skier, and was on the ski patrol at Schweitzer until 1972.

Upon retirement, he and Caryl wintered in Arizona, where he enjoyed playing golf. He turned pro playing on the mini tour always finishing in the top three.

He and Caryl summered in Idaho on Lake Pend Oreille. He also was an avid and capable boater. He and Caryl spent many memorable summers living on their boats. They took several voyages along the Pacific Coast, including one to Glacier Bay, Alaska.

He chose to see the best in people and influenced many. He was an intelligent, accomplished, and content man. He had a great sense of humor and was a class act. He said of his life, “It was a hell of a run.” He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

George is survived by his loving wife, Caryl; daughters, Debbie (Mike) Smith and Connie (Ron) VanGundy; grandchildren, Tess (Victor) Rae, Travis (Corilynne) Smith, Tyln (Rachael) Smith, Lisa (Matt) Noble, TJ (Jen) Clary, and Lori (Chris) Carpenter; 17 great-grandchildren; and the rest of his family and friends.

No services at his request. Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements.

Please visit George’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.