Ward Mcmullin Hicken

Ward McMullin Hicken was born in Raymond, Alberta, Canada on Jan 3, 1918, the 10th child of Mary Lovina McMullin and number 17 for Thomas Hicken.

He served an LDS Mission in Texas-Louisiana, and afterward moved to Salt Lake City to attend LDS Business College, during which time he met and married Afton Elaine Clegg in the Salt Lake Temple, a marriage and loving companionship which was to last 59 years until her death. Gratefully now that companionship has resumed.

During World War II, he enlisted in the Naval Reserves and Merchant Marines and served in both Pacific and Atlantic fleets. After the war he worked as a painter and paperhanger before becoming a plumber and furnace technician. He started Hicken Heating Company, later to become Dependable Plumbing Company, which at one time was the largest plumbing contractor in Utah.

Ward was a talented musician who played the trumpet, clarinet and saxophone in dance bands to support his college education. In 1953 he toured Europe with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, of which he was a member. Ward enjoyed travel, and learning of other cultures. He explored many countries in Europe, South Pacific, Caribbean, South America, Japan and over 40 states during his lifetime.

He was an active member of the LDS Church and a valiant disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ in word and deed. He served faithfully in many callings such as scoutmaster, bishop, teacher and was loved and appreciated by the many friends he made in his church service. Ward was bishop of the Granger 11th Ward and supervised the building of its new chapel which he helped design. Ward viewed service as a great opportunity and did so with optimism, gratitude and dedication He provided for his family, gave generously to those in need and provided employment to many.

After retirement he was actively involved in temple work, which was his passion and a major purpose in his life for nearly 40 years performing work for many thousands of individuals.

He is survived by his children Don (Shauna) Hicken, Analee (Curt) Gravis, Paul (Kelly) Hicken, Adrian Hicken and Val (Marjann) Hicken; plus nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Viewing is 9:30-10:30 AM, Monday, March 13, 2017 followed by the funeral at 11:00 AM, at the LDS Chapel at 4917 Viewmont Drive, Holladay, Utah. Interment:  Heber City Cemetery