CLAFLIN — Dennis Frederick Hickel, 75, passed away on April 1, 2026, at his home in rural Claflin, Kan. He was born on July 22, 1950, in Great Bend, to Frederick and Agnes Marie (Oberle) Hickel.

A lifetime Claflin resident, Dennis worked for in the oilfield for Brakeen Line Cleaning, Inc. and DS&W Well Service, Inc., working with pulling units and as a tank hauler, along with owning 156 Lounge, where he was known for cooking some of the best steaks around. Prior to his working years, he proudly served his country in the United States Army with a tour in Germany. Dennis attended masses at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Bushton. He enjoyed turtle and coyote hunting, gardening, playing cards, and loved his dogs.

Survivors include three brothers, Michael Hickel of Susank, Kenneth Hickel and wife Carol of Great Bend, and Ron Hickel and wife June of Ellinwood; four sisters, Janice Nichols of Great Bend, Agnes Sheridan of Hillsboro, Nancy Diming and husband Frank of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Mary K. Rupe and husband Terry of Hitschmann; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; and brothers-in-law, Nick Nichols and Tom Sheridan.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with family receiving guests from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Rosary at 7 p.m., all at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Inurnment will follow at Holy Name Catholic Cemetery in Bushton, with military honors presented by Fort Riley Honor Guard. Memorials have been designated to Claflin Fire and EMS or Kans for Kids, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home

P.O. Box 146

Hoisington, KS 67544

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 5, 2026