DAVID L. HICKS
PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY I 1967-96
David L. Hicks, professor emeritus of biology, died June 3 in Spokane. He was 89. Over nearly three decades, he inspired Whitworth students with his passion for biology, his remarkable breadth of knowledge, and his contagious curiosity about the natural world. He was a gifted teacher and a beloved mentor and colleague whose warmth, humility and humor made a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Hicks pioneered science field studies at Whitworth. He led study programs abroad, teaching students about nature, environmental practices and the importance of developing cultural awareness. His greatest professional satisfaction came from his students – he loved to challenge their thinking while supporting their aspirations. For much of his life, he pursued the intersection of science and faith and encouraged his students and family to do so as well.
Hicks was predeceased by his spouse of 63 years, Janet Hicks ’74. Survivors include his children, Alan Hicks ’00, Brenda (Hicks) Arkills-Ritchie ’83 and Cheryl (Hicks) Kimball ’88; son-in-law David “Chip” Kimball ’88; and granddaughter Alexis Kimball ’15
If you would like to honor David Hicks’ legacy, you can donate to the David and Janet Hicks Endowed Scholarship Fund at whitworth.edu/give-hicksendowment.
MICHAEL E. YOUNG
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MUSIC I 1976-2001
Michael E. Young, associate professor emeritus of music, died Oct. 5 in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. He was 86.
Young’s 25-year career at Whitworth left a lasting imprint on generations of students, colleagues and friends. Known for his excellence as a teacher, performer and composer, he nurtured the musical lives of hundreds of students. His kindness, humor and careful attention to each student made his classes memorable and transformative. As organist for Whitworth’s annual Christmas Festival Concert and choir tours, his artistry became an integral part of Whitworth’s music traditions.
A prolific composer, Young’s body of work includes more than 150 opus numbers, from symphonies and concertos to choral works, chamber music and his beloved Mountain Sketches, a series of piano suites inspired by his passion for mountains and mountaineering. His compositions were performed locally and across the U.S. and abroad, including premieres at Carnegie Hall and commencement ceremonies at The Juilliard School.
Young’s legacy endures in the lives he touched and through his music, now housed in the Michael E. Young Archives at Whitworth University.