Dedicated teacher leaves a love of learning

Roy Hickes, professor emeritus of education, died Aug. 10 after a brief illness. He was 90.

A 1925 graduate of Glassport High School in Glassport, Pa., Hickes began his teaching career at Glassport in 1929 as a science teacher and coach after he received his bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University.

He later served as principal at the school. In 1934, Hickes received his master’s degree from Pennsylvania State University, and 17 years later, he received his doctorate in education from the University of Pittsburgh.

In 1951, Hickes became superintendent of the Carnegie School District in Carnegie, Pa., and nine years later moved to Springfield to begin his Wittenberg teaching career.

During his 15-year career at Wittenberg, Hickes, who frequently sported a characteristic bow tie, directed the Summer Session and graduate program. He also served as chair of the education department.

He retired in 1975 and was granted emeritus status in September of the same year.

Described as someone who shared his love of teaching and learning with students, Hickes was also an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening.

He also enjoyed sports, serving as an athletic official, and was said to have met the challenge of a good bridge hand.

Mary Kathryn Hardy Hickes, his wife of 54 years, survives, along with his daughter, Melissa H. Zaletski, and her husband, Kenneth. Four grandchildren and 10 nieces and nephews also survive.

His daughter, Rebecca Hickes Harwood, and his brother, John M. Hickes, predeceased him.