Honoring the Service and Legacy of Fire Chief Michael Glenn Hicks

Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services would like to share our condolences for the passing of retired Fire Chief, Michael Glenn Hicks who passed peacefully on March 1, 2025, in Wickenburg, Arizona of heart related illness at age 78. 

Chief Michael Glenn Hicks was born in Amarillo, Texas on April 28, 1946, and raised in Santa Margarita, California. After attending local schools, Mike began his lifelong career of service with Atascadero Fire in 1966.  Rising through the ranks, he ultimately served as Fire Chief for over 13 years.  Chief Hicks was instrumental in the transition from the Atascadero Fire Protection District to the Atascadero Fire Department, following the incorporation of the City of Atascadero.  Under his leadership, fire protection services expanded significantly. He was instrumental in launching paramedic level medical service in 1984 and opening Fire Station 2 in 1986 – both major advancements in emergency response for the community.  Chief Hicks impact on the department is still felt today.  His dedication to the fire service inspired his son and grandsons, who all followed his path into their own careers.

Never one to sit still, after his retirement Mike founded Hicks Custom Photography, where he could be found setting up his camera equipment in flowering fields or in his studio taking pictures for local families. Mike’s clients fell in love with his personality and witty charm, and there wasn’t a grumpy child that he was unable to coax a smile from for the camera.

Mike moved to Washington State in 2002, and then became a “snowbird” in 2007, wintering in Wickenburg AZ where he enjoyed his passions of team roping and golf.

Please join us for Mike’s Celebration of Life which will be held on April 27th at 3:00 PM at the Atascadero Lake Pavilion. Please come and share stories of your memories with Mike. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Atascadero Firefighters Association for a future memorial for ALL fallen Atascadero Firefighters.