Mike Hicks

Mike Hicks

November 24, 1967 - March 3, 2026

Michael Wayne Hicks, 58, of Allen, South Dakota, went home to be with Jesus on Tuesday morning, March 3, at the Bennett County Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born on November 24, 1967, in Martin, SD, to Donald Hicks and Rita (Brown) Hicks.

He attended grade school at the Central Country School west of Martin and graduated from Bennett County High School in Martin in 1986.

One of Mike’s favorite memories growing up was working for and becoming part of Ralph Pettit’s family south of Batesland! He learned so much there that he carried it with him throughout his life.

After a short stint of work in Nevada after high school, he came back to work for his cousin, Delbert Hicks, on his ranch.

It was during that time that he met Laura Hines at a branding. They both knew it was forever when they were riding back to the trailers and he offered to pony a few of the horses she was leading so she’d quit spilling her beer!

They were married in September of 1992 and were half of each other's whole. They enjoyed working (and arguing for the sake of making up) together on their ranch north of Allen for 35 glorious years.

To this union, the pride of Mike’s life, his 2 sons, Dustin and Brady, were born. Mike was hard, but he was fair. He set high expectations for his boys and loved watching them exceed those! He was always extremely proud of their work ethic, character, and get-it-done attitude.

Something none of us were prepared for was how this strong man turned into a big old softy when it came to his grandkids! He LOVED being Papa to Jackson and Harper. Watching him play and teach them will forever affect all of us.

Mike was incredibly smart and gifted when it came to anything involving numbers and mechanics. He was known for his “technical mechanic services” to many in Bennett and Jackson County! His ability to talk you through fixing a well, tractor, or anything electrical over the phone was simply amazing!

No matter where you were, you knew things would be handled when Mike showed up. He wasn’t a big man, but he had a big presence, and you immediately felt it when he walked into a room. He was a protector by nature and everyone he loved knew he wasn’t shy about putting himself between danger and them.

Mike was involved with the Green Valley Fire Department and thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie he had with fellow firefighters.

While we are grateful he is out of pain, the void left by Mike’s passing will be felt by many. Until we meet again, Mike!

Mike is survived by his wife, Laura, sons Dustin (Brittney) and Brady (Samantha), and grandchildren Jackson and Harper. Sisters Kim (Rick) Bailey and Robbie (Mike) Horrigan and brother Wayne (Robin) Lamb, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald “Duck” Hicks and Rita Hicks.

Honorary pallbearers are Dave Sell, Delbert Hicks, Merle Hicks, Scott Hicks, Bryan Cuny, Wade Risse, Jay Nies and Rich Toczek.

Memorial donations in Mike’s honor can be made to Bennett County Home Health.