David Michael “Dave” Hicks
David Michael “Dave” Hicks, age 75, of Crestline, died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at Avita Health Systems- Galion Hospital after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Dave was born April 1, 1950 in Galion to the late James H. and Teresa B. (Rietschlin) Hicks, Sr. A 1968 graduate of Buckeye Central High School, Dave served his country during the Vietnam War as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. For work, Dave was a carpenter and builder, owning his own construction company for many years- Hicks Construction.
His hobby of woodworking paired well with his career as a builder along with making stained glass works. He loved his farm and caring for it- the farm which was originally owned by grandma and grandpa Rietschlin. He was also a car enthusiast.
Dave is survived by his wife, Jeannie Marie (Hook) Hicks, whom he married June 17, 2023; children: Alexa and Brandon; siblings: Diane Shell, Susan (Allen) Yetzer, James (Linda) Hicks, Jr., Joseph (Tammy) Hicks, William Hicks, Rebecca Hicks-Concilla, and Heidi (Brian) Barga; step-daughters: Tammy (Robert) Collins and Shelly Duffy; step-grandchildren: Christopher Krick, Victoria Price, Joshua Collins, and Aaron Collins; 9 step great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his brother-in-law: John Shell: and nephews: Eric Yetzer and Brent Slone.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, July 25, 2026 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where a decade of the Rosary will be recited to conclude the calling hours at 7 pm. Dave’s Funeral Mass will be on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 5741 State Route 61, Shelby. Military Honors will follow the Mass conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail.
Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to offset funeral expenses. Condolences may be made on Dave’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
To view Dave’s tribute video click here: Dave’s tribute video.
Dave was such a sweet, gentle man. He was a treasured friend at a time when his kindness was so important in our lives. Hugs to his family as he will be missed.
Born only a few months apart and nearly next-door neighbors, my cousin Dave and I were classmates at Sacred Heart elementary school, buddies, and sometimes co-mischief-makers. As we have lived our adult lives hundreds of miles apart, our times together since high school have been infrequent. However, we always enjoyed our visits, not only reminiscing about childhood memories but also sharing our interests and love for our families over the years. I truly appreciated Dave’s gentle curious spirit. He and the many family members he leaves behind are in my prayers.
John Rietschlin
Thank you brother Dave.. for all the love, kindness, wisdom & support you shared with our family.. and so many others! ❤️ You were a great inspiration and so much fun to be around! You will be missed, until we meet again, love ya!