James B Wicks

James B. Wicks, 77, of Lake City, died unexpectedly, Saturday November 7, 2015 at his home. He was born January 25, 1938 in Saratoga Springs, New York. He grew up and attended school in New York before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served from 1962 to 1968 and spent time in Korea. Following his honorable discharge he married Carol Black. The couple raised five children while living in South Beloit, Illinois. At the same time they owned a family business in Wisconsin Dells, The Wood Chip Shop, where for more than 27 years Jim and his family created custom wood carved signs. In 1998 he moved back to New York. Then, in 2008 he moved to Lake City to be closer to his daughter. James was a skilled craftsman and handyman. There wasn't anything he couldn't fix. He'll be remembered for his ability to take broken down, worn out and discarded items and fix them to work and look like new again. He also had a passion for motorcycles, particularly Harley Davidson. During his life he owned and restored more than 13 bikes, his most treasured being his Triumph Bonneville 650 and his Harley Davidson Softail.
He is survived by his children, James Jr. Force of Lake City, Tara (Andy) Duncan of Lake City, Josh Wicks of Wisconsin Dells, Ruth Wicks Boals of Saratoga Springs, New York and Kathleen Wicks Bagby of Ormond Beach, Florida; eight grandchildren, Justin Force, David Force, Edan Wicks, Sulley Duncan, Kilian Duncan, Kai Duncan, Dawn (Michelle) Fox and Shea (Steven) Hayley; two great grandchildren, Ryan C. Fox and Christopher M. Hutchinson.
He is preceded in death by sons, David "Shawn" Force and Timothy Wicks.
A private family service will take place at a later date. James will be laid to rest in a National Cemetery.
Arrangements with the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Anderson-Peterson Chapel, Lake City. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com