Walter Ray Hicklin, 84, of Warrensburg, passed away on January 19, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 19, 1939, in Gilliam, MO, the son of Lee Aven and Lovica Robin Hicklin.

Hicklin was a Warrensburg resident who grew up in East Kansas City, MO and graduated from Missouri Valley College in Marshall, MO where he was named Mr. Viking in 1961. He earned both a Master's and Specialist's Degrees from CMSU (now UCM). He retired from UCM in 2006 after 31 years of service. He came to the university from Lee's Summit High School, where he taught mathematics, was the athletic director, an assistant principal and served as the head football coach. He was also named Kansas City's Suburban Head Football Coach of the year 3 times. After enjoying a successful career in high school coaching, he was named head coach of the Mules football team in 1976 and continued to teach mathematics at the college level in the former Department of Academic Enrichment. His strong leadership ability contributed to him becoming Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, and later Interim Vice President for Student Affairs.

During his tenure in Student Affairs, Hicklin received the Noel Levitz National Award for a student retention program he designed and implemented. Through this program, Hicklin mentored hundreds of students and helped most of them to become graduates of UCM. He was the first recipient of UCM's annual J.P. Mees Award for Outstanding Professional Staff in 2003.

Following his retirement from UCM, Hicklin was appointed to the UCM Board of Governors by Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt in 2007. He served two one-year terms as President of the Board from 2010 to 2012 and sat on the Governing Board continuously for 12 years. While working at UCM, he was named to the Missouri Boys State Board of Directors in 1991 and served the Missouri Boys State Program for 37 years. In 2011 Hicklin was inducted into the Missouri Boys State Hall of Fame and inducted to the Missouri Valley College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001. Additionally, he is a former recipient of the SGA Excellence in Governance Award.

Hicklin officiated High School and College football for 25 years including state championships and college bowl games and then went on to become a scout for the Canadian Football League. He gave back to the community as an Elder of the Presbyterian Church, President of United Way, President of Rotary Club, and President of the Warrensburg School Board. Hicklin also was a member of the Central Missouri Community Credit Union Board of Directors.

In his vibrant and fulfilling life, Hicklin cherished the roles that brought him immense joy. One of the most cherished roles in his life was undoubtedly that of being a grandfather. He embraced this title with unparalleled enthusiasm and love, finding immense joy in the unique bond he shared with his grandchildren. The laughter, shared stories, and tender moments spent together were the highlights of his days.

The serene beauty of the lake at his lake house held a special place in his heart, where he found peace and created lasting memories. A true football enthusiast, whether playing or watching, he immersed himself in the exhilarating world of the sport. His passion for football was contagious, and he became a source of inspiration for those around him. As a role model, his strong and unwavering character left an indelible mark on others, who looked up to him with admiration. His stubbornness, a distinctive trait, was not only accepted but cherished by everyone who knew him. It added a unique flavor to his character, showcasing a resilient spirit and determination that left a lasting impression. His wit, a delightful blend of humor and cleverness, brought joy and laughter to those fortunate enough to share in his company. Whether engaging in playful banter or offering insightful perspectives, his wit was a source of warmth and connection. In celebrating his memory, we fondly recall the indomitable spirit and the charming wit that made him a beloved figure in the lives of those he touched. And, of course, his love for chocolate ice cream was a delightful indulgence that brought sweetness to his days. In remembering him, we honor a life well-lived, filled with love, passion, and the enduring impact he had on those fortunate enough to share in his journey.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Hicklin of Warrensburg, a daughter, Mindy Martin (Billy) of Stillwater, Oklahoma, a daughter Tricia Bohle (Kevin) of Sedalia MO, a son John Hicklin (Sarah) of Hutchinson Kansas, several nieces and nephews, and 6 grandchildren: Megan McCann, Cassidy McCann, Kory Bohle, Kaylee Bohle, Michael Hicklin, and Madelyn Hicklin. Walt was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Lovica Hicklin and a brother Rob Hicklin.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 26, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Warrensburg with Reverend Heather Jepsen officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Parkinson's Foundation or to the UCM Foundation (memo line: Walter Hicklin Memorial) and left in care of the funeral home.