Charles ‘Chuck’ Hicks, 71, the Harley-loving, Goshen Blacksmith passed away January 13, 2023 following his battle with a short-term illness. Chuck was born December 2, 1951 in Fayetteville, Arkansas to Lawrence and Margaret Hicks who predeceased him.
Chuck served proudly in the U.S. Air Force and was a Vietnam veteran. He went on to serve law enforcement officer with the VA Hospital, the Fayetteville Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office. He served his community as a blacksmith and a farrier for over 40 years.
Chuck was greatly loved and will be forever missed by his friends and extended family. He is survived by his wife and ‘partner in crime’, Laura Hicks of the home; 3 daughters, Zantha Sanderlin of Fort Worth, Texas, Amy (Josh) Mitchell of Weatherford, Texas and Carrie Callahan of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Chuck is also survived by 6 stepchildren he claimed as his own; Matt Divin of Lincoln, Arkansas, Jodie (Ryan) Smith of Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Robert Divin of San Antonio, Texas, Todd (Sarah) Divin of Tulsa, Oklahoma, John Denaro and Amanda Denaro both of Fayetteville, Arkansas. He was also the proud and loving Papa to 10 adoring grandchildren. Chuck is survived by his brother, Larry (Marilyn) Hicks of Bend, Oregon and 2 sisters; Barbara Craven of Salem, Oregon and Peggy (Oliver Johnson) Hicks of Pueblo, Colorado.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held January 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Beard’s Funeral Chapel in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Inurnment will be 10:30 AM Monday, January 23, 2023 at the Fayetteville National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Chuck’s name to: St. Francis House SSVF Program, 1030 S. College Ave, Fayetteville, Arkansas, 72701.
Cremation arrangements by Beard’s Funeral Chapel.
So sorry to hear of the death of this very nice, friendly, and funny man. He was a friend and customer of ours at American Tire in Fayetteville. The co-owner, Hut Garrison was in a horse club with Chuck and he took care of all of Hut’s horseshoeing. Chuck was also a favorite of my son Keith who worked with us. My prayers go out to the family.
We lost a really good person. I will always appreciate his friendship. My prayers go out to him and his family.
A giant of a man who I will never forget. Kathy G
We are so saddened to hear that Chuck has passed away. He was an incredible man, and had such a big heart for veterans. He helped to provide a generous supply of food for our veteran clients in our homeless SSVF program through St. Francis House on multiple occasions, and this positively impacted countless veterans in our program who were dealing with food insecurity. He was always so positive and funny, and would chat with us and tell great stories when visiting our offices. Chuck will be greatly missed by everyone he came into contact with, and we will never forget him and the good he brought into this world! Our condolences go to his family, and we wish you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Best farrier my horses ever had and best friend I was lucky enough to ever have, I will always remember Chuck with a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart. Bill S.
Chuck will be greatly missed. He shod my horses horses for 30 +years. It was always nice visiting with him. He gave so much of himself to everyone he met always willing to lend a hand. I will miss his humor and he will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends.
Chuck was an amazing blacksmith and farrier. He had a huge heart and great personality. It was a privilege for him to work on our horses at the farm. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
So very glad I knew Chuck and know he is going to be missed by lots of folks. My prayers are with Laura and the family. Mike d.
My deepest condolences to the family of my friend and former long-term co-worker, Chuck. I had the pleasure and privilege to work with Chuck at FPD for many years. Whenever back-up was needed, it was a sigh of relief to hear Chuck state that he was responding over the radio. Once we were assigned to a remote area at Lake Wedington manning a roadblock for a couple of bank robbers. Sure enough, they drove into our trap. I have no doubt that, once they saw Chuck’s large stature, they decided to peacefully surrender to us. Church was always very friendly and willing to help. He will be missed. Prayers all around.🙏🏻
You were loved by so very many and will be missed horribly! I knew you for several years and can say you Chuck were such an amazing man that cared deeply for others and always had a good joke for me while you worked on my horses! Thank you for always showing me that other people care and help one another rest in peace in your new home. Prayers for you and your family Laura
Chuck was one of the finest men I’ve ever met. I considered him one of my closest frends , and a mentor I could take my troubles to with confidence he would always have sound advice.
The combination of strength of character and humility he carried is very rare these days. He will be deeply missed. Prayers to his family
Laura & Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Your friends
Roberta Huthison & Linda Ring
Cave City