David HICKS

July 20, 1935 - June 3, 2025

Dr. David Lee Hicks, beloved husband, family man, and professor passed away in Spokane, Washington on June 3, 2025, at the age of 89. David was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Janet, and is survived by his brother, Bruce; three children, Alan, Brenda (John) and Cheryl (Chip); as well as five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren who universally adore and love him.

David was a professor of Biology and Ecology at Whitworth University for 29 years before his retirement in 1996. Dr. Hicks loved science, nature, and deepening his understanding of complex topics from a broad range of fields. His greatest professional satisfaction came from his students. He often spoke about personal connections with students from all backgrounds and loved to challenge their thinking while supporting their aspirations.

At Whitworth, Dr. Hicks pioneered science field studies, leading study tours all over the world where he would teach students about nature, science, environmental practices, and the importance of understanding other cultures. His advocacy for the environment started long before it was popular, rooted in his graduate studies under award winning ecologist Eugene Odum who served as his mentor and friend. David was outspoken about the tradeoffs between the environment and business and was a fierce advocate for protecting the natural world.

David loved the outdoors, travel, and staying active. He enjoyed physical challenges including hiking, running, backpacking, playing basketball, and was proud to have run a marathon and summit Mt. Rainier in his 50's. He also enjoyed international travel with his wife Janet, birdwatching anywhere they could, and their favorite place to vacation was the Oregon Coast. He was pragmatic, intellectual, curious, opinionated, and generous with his time and resources. For most of his life he pursued the intersection of science and faith and encouraged his students and family to do the same.

More than his love of teaching and science, David loved his family. Known as "grampy" by his five grandchildren, he adored each of them and loved any opportunity to be with them and support them. He would frequently travel with Janet to all parts of the country to see his children and grandchildren and eloquently wrote about the profound impact of grandchildren on one's life.

David was raised predominantly in the Midwest by his mother who was a teacher, and father who was a Quaker minister before the family moved to Oregon in the 1950's. He attended Cascade College and during this time met the love of his life, Janet, who was attending Westmont College. David received his Ph.D. in biology from the University of Georgia in 1967. Dave and Janet raised their children in Spokane, were active members in their local church, and supported causes for education, equity, and the environment.

A memorial service is planned August 9th, 2pm, at Whitworth Presbyterian Church. The family has asked for donations in lieu of flowers to Whitworth University David and Janet Hicks Endowed Scholarship Fund or Horizon Hospice.