Gary Alan Hickenbottom

Gary Alan Hickenbottom, age 72, passed away on April 20, 2026.

Gary was born on August 11, 1953, in Davenport, Iowa, to Clifford and Esther Hickenbottom. He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Ellen Hickenbottom, on August 17, 1974, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and devotion.

Gary was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as a loyal friend. He found great joy in cooking, especially experimenting with new recipes for smoked and grilled meats, which he loved sharing with his family. He had a deep appreciation for firearms and their history, taking particular interest in how they have evolved over generations.

A talented woodworker, Gary created many cherished pieces for his family, including cribs, toy boxes, and stools for his grandchildren. He had a keen eye and natural ability for crafting beautiful and lasting wooden furniture. Later in life, he especially enjoyed restoring and building various types of firearms.

Gary dedicated over 40 years of his career to auto mechanics, where he became highly skilled and respected for his expertise, particularly in used vehicles. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed peaceful Sundays at home, spending time with his cats and watching auto racing.

Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind four children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward with love.

No funeral or memorial services are immediately planned. The family will be honoring his life privately.

In Loving Memory — A Poem by His Granddaughter

Flower blooms, 
Water bends, 
All things meet their doom, 
And soon their tragic end.

The bright colors soon dwindle, 
For you’re missed once it’s gone, 
Yet now all feels brittle, 
And everything is wrong.

The round glasses and clutter, 
Now no more than a flutter, 
The projects, crafts, and gifts 
Have now gone amiss.

Joking and laughter, 
Now the house feels much quieter after, 
The creases from years of smiles 
Shall never be shared again. 
For you have just left, though it feels awhile, 
To see your face—who knows when.

Both have gone with sunset, 
For no pain nor suffering shall follow, 
And you may rest. 
Though I may not know where you are, my fellow.

You shall be loved, 
Even if you may not know, 
For you are my beloved. 
So finally rest, while I handle my sorrow, 
As the flowers wilt, and the colors dwindle.