Michael R. Hicks

Heaven’s gates opened wide for Michael Richard Hicks, 63, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri on October 16 after a courageous battle with a long-term illness. He was born on February 5, 1952, and was raised in Independence, Missouri. Many lives have been touched by Mike’s dedication and leadership to his family, church, community, fire and emergency services. He attended Truman High School when he began his love for music and faith by learning to play guitar and trumpet in the band. He developed an interest in ministry through youth group activities and attended Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, MO. He spent a year with Campus Crusade For Christ in San Bernadino, CA before he returned back to the Kansas City area. His extensive career in emergency medicine began when he worked for Gold Cross Ambulance and Clay- Platte Ambulance which led him to attend one of the first paramedic programs which began in the early 1970’s. He was a provider, educator, and manager for many organizations. Mike began as a paramedic at Lee’s Summit Fire Department in 1975 where his career developed to include positions as Firefighter, Fire Investigator, Paramedic team leader, Rescue Diver, and Assistant Fire Chief of Training and Emergency Medical Services. In 1977, he married Vicki and they helped coordinate a “Young- Marrieds” program at St. Regis Church. This has led to lifelong friendships with wonderful neighbors and friends while Mike and Vicki raised 3 wonderful children.

In 1987, Mike took the position of Fire Chief of Consolidated Fire District No. 2 in northeast Johnson County, KS and the move that followed to Prairie Village and Shawnee, KS again brought Mike’s family together with very special neighbors that will forever be treasured. Mike offered his talents with several church communities by singing and playing his guitar, and volunteering with Boy Scouts and youth programs. He taught for more than 20 years and was an experienced instructor, trainer, and coordinator at Johnson County Community College, Penn Valley Community College, MAST Ambulance, and Central Jackson County Fire Protection District. Mike was active in many civic and community activities including service as a member of the Board of Directors of Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of Johnson County Fire Chief Association and Chair of Board of Directors for Mid-America Regional Council Emergency Rescue. Mike successfully organized the effort to change Missouri State law to allow paramedics to give medications and perform procedures without orders from a doctor at medical central. Mike spent a year in Afghanistan while combat operations were ongoing providing emergency medical services in Kabul and Kandahar. Upon his return from Afghanistan, he worked for Mid-America Regional Council as an Emergency Service Planner and was instrumental in the development of the region’s first time critical diagnosis plan. Mike’s recognitions include the Distinguished Service Medal from LSFD, the David E. Garcia Award for distinguished EMS career, and most recently, the MEMSA Lifetime Achievement Award.

He is survived by his wife, Vicki of 38 years, their children, Beth Tinsley (Chris), Ben Hicks (Heidi), Katie Gross (Dan), and eight beloved grandchildren (Kirsten, Deidra, and Lilly Gross; Amelia, Isabelle, and Henry Hicks; Savannah and Emersyn Tinsley). He is also survived by his parents, Richard and Lorene Hicks, and sister, Darline Keck (Tom).

Mike treasured the friendships he developed worldwide. His trust in the Lord carried him through many of life’s journeys. He never knew a stranger but always listened and enjoyed long conversations and stories with family and friends. Mike’s legacy will now live on through his eight grandchildren who brought him such great joy. He lived life with integrity and love. He will be sorely missed by all.

Services will be held at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church 130 NW Murray Rd, Lees Summit, MO 64081 Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2015 from 5-8pm with funeral mass on Friday, October 23, at 10:30am. Graveside services are scheduled for October 31, 2015 at 10:30 am at the First Responder memorial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64138

We thank the many compassionate and dedicated nurses and health care professionals of Saint Luke’s Hospice for their loving care. The family suggests contributions to The Myositis Association or Saint Luke’s Home Care & Hospice.