Rodney D. Hicks, 70 of Eau Claire passed away on Friday, May 5, 2017 at Dove Healthcare-West.

Rodney was born on February 20, 1947 to Hobert and Harriet (Whaley) Hicks in Superior, Wisconsin.  He graduated from Memorial High School in 1965.  He then attended the Chippewa Valley Technical College and graduated with a degree in Accounting. Following school, he enlisted in the U.S Army where he served three years, including one year in Vietnam.   He married Kathleen Jo Bailey in 1973, they later divorced.   

Rodney worked at Eau Claire Book & Stationery for ten years before taking a job with the Waupun State Prison as a purchaser for six months before transferring to the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire where he worked in housekeeping for the dorms.  He later became the custodial supervisor for all the dorms.  He was very active in hosting foreign exchange students for the University.  He was fond of camping and photography, especially flowers.  He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, his adopted dog “Shooter”, and going out to eat with his good friend Jim. 

Rodney is survived by his sons, Matthew Hicks and Adam (Laura) Hicks; grandchildren, Maxwell, Harrison, Owen, Preston, and Kellen Hicks; brother, Gregory (Shannon) Hicks; aunt, Gert Christianson; uncle, Dennis (Renee) Hicks; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents; and many uncles and aunts.  

The family would like to thank the staff of Mayo Home Health Hospice and Dove Healthcare – West for their exceptional care of Rod. 

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Smith Funeral Chapel.  Private family burial will take place at a later date at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery in Spooner, WI.