John Hicks

John Hicks, age 86, of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on 24 December 2019.  John was a U.S. Navy Veteran.

John was surrounded by family in his last days and will be lovingly remembered by his family, including his wife, Madeline aka Nena (Arduino) Hicks; sister Mary and her husband Karan Baker; son Billy Hicks, wife Sandy and grandchildren Nikki and Danny; stepson Kurt van Vloten, wife Lisa, and grandchildren Amber and Natalia; stepdaughter Kari (van Vloten), husband Norberto Hernandez, and grandchildren Tiana, Alex and Mia;  and stepdaughter Kim (van Vloten), husband Rob Costello and grandsons Ryan and Connor.

John was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, and spent his early years on his family farm where he learned the values of hard work and commitment to family.   As a young man, John joined the U.S. Navy, where he served our country in the Korean War, Vietnam War and Cold War on various submarines, retiring after 20 years with the rank of Quarter Master Chief - QMC (SS).  During his service, John had earned various medals for his involvement in these wars, to include the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, China Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal.

John also had a love for music, which began early in his life.  His musical talents were many, but he was happiest when both singing and playing guitar for others.  After retiring from the Navy, John fulfilled this passion by forming his band “John Hicks and Revolution”, a country music band that played throughout New England. He thereafter became known as the “Boston Cowboy” winning numerous country music awards.   

After retiring from music, John kept busy with his hobbies, to include Golf which he took up later in life, and Pool.  John enjoyed the comradery as well as the competition these hobbies provided while playing with friends and family. 

But most of all, John will be lovingly remembered and cherished for his kindness, easy going nature, and the many memories he provided all of us as a wonderful man and an integral part of our family life.

The funeral services are from 1:00 – 3:00 on Sunday, 12 January, 2020 at Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave, Needham, MA.  The family warmly welcomes friends to attend.

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