Dennis Ray Hickel, 74, passed away July 20, 2025, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River, Kan. He was born April 1, 1951, in Pratt, the son of, Arthur “Art” and Annie (Considine) Hickel. Dennis was married to Betty Rauscher, and to this union was blessed with two daughters, Debra and Stacie. They later divorced. He was united in marriage to Karen Jones on Oct. 8, 1988, in Great Bend. 

Dennis was a long-time resident of Great Bend, coming from Ellinwood. He was employed throughout his life in the oilfield, Essex, Marmie’s, and Larned State Hospital. He was very active in various activities during his membership at First Southern Baptist Church. He served as a Boy Scout Leader, a Lions Club member, and Friends of the Library member. His greatest joy was found in time spent with his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 36 years, Karen Hickel; daughters, Debra Hickel, Stacie Stange; sister, Patricia Blair; brother, Michael Hickel; grandchildren, Cheyenne, Bradley, Wesley, Scottie, Trenton, Keyanna, Izaac, Gracie; great grandchildren, Ethan, Brinley, Thayn, Thax, and Zayn. He was preceded in death by his parents and previous wife, Betty.

Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Singleton presiding. A private family burial will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to St. Joseph Catholic School Education Endowment Fund, First Southern Baptist Church or Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 2, 2025