Michael Edward Hicks

Michael Hicks, known as "Poppa Bear" or "Rebel," passed away on December 12, 2025, in Hendersonville, North Carolina, at the age of 68. He was born on September 8, 1957, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and lived a life marked by faith, service, and deep love for his family.

He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and later continued a life of service in law enforcement with the Ann Arbor Police Department, retiring as a detective. He went on to work as a security guard for the Ford family in Michigan and remained committed to prison and jail ministry until his passing.

Mike was a devoted follower of Christ and an active member of Upward Christian Fellowship Church in Flat Rock, North Carolina, where his faith, generosity, and steady presence left a lasting impact.

Poppa Bear Mike was a mighty man of God and a devoted prayer warrior, known for his unwavering faith and deep love for both his family and his church. When asked how he was doing, he would simply say he was "truly blessed and highly favored," how we should all respond. He had a heart for so many, faithfully serving in prison ministry and standing as a protector of the flock wherever God placed him. An avid storyteller, his words carried wisdom, humor, and truth, and he was always there-no matter the need or the time of day. He loved the beauty of God's creation, whether experienced from his motorcycle on the open road or through the window of his living room, where he found peace watching the dogs and chickens go about their days. He found joy in cheering for the Red Wings, the Lions, and the U of M football team, and most of all in loving those God entrusted to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Calvin Hicks and Lillian Janelle Davis Hicks. He is survived by his beloved children: daughter Rachael Hicks, and sons Michael Hicks, Jr. and Calvin Hicks; his sister Doris Engel; brothers Tom Hicks (Cherie) and Todd Hicks (Eric); extended family, dear friends, and his cherished Chorkie, Miss Hooter.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Upward Christian Fellowship. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Coffee hour to follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Upward Christian Fellowship or The Blue Ridge Prison and Jail Ministry. Michael will be remembered for his strength, faith, and unwavering love for others-a legacy that will continue to live on through the lives he touched.