Steve Dennis Fikes

Steve Dennis Fikes, 67, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock, Arkansas. Steve was born April 3, 1947 in Hot Springs, Arkansas to Morris and Floy Fikes. He enjoyed being outside with his younger brother, Bruce, and playing football. He graduated from Hot Springs High School in 1965 and received a B.S. in Business Administration from Henderson State University in Hot Springs. Steve served in the U.S. Air Force before working as a general manager at several companies. He worked at Arkansas Power and Light, Roto Rooter, and most recently at North Pulaski Waterworks in Cabot. Steve married his best friend, Karen, on June 17, 1972 in El Dorado, Arkansas. They spent much of their time in Jacksonville, Arkansas, where they raised two sons, Kevin and Scott. Steve was a devoted dad, spending many hours at the ballfield coaching and watching his boys play. Steve and Karen could frequently be found traveling the state to cheer on their boys in all their games. Steve loved to read and had a soft spot for Blue Bell ice-cream and other delicious sweets. You could frequently find him sitting in his favorite chair watching the news, or ordering another cooking gadget. He served on the personnel committee at the Jacksonville First Baptist Church, where he was a dedicated member for more than 25 years. Steve was a true example of a Christian man. He was known for his integrity, strength of character, and devotion to his friends and family. His faith was immeasurable and he always put others' needs first. As "Peepaw" to his two grandsons, Steve fulfilled one of his most important roles. Playing cars, throwing balls, and cutting up bananas were simple yet precious tasks that Steve took great joy in doing. Steve's giving nature will continue as he was an organ donor. This would thrill him to no end, knowing he is helping others even after he is gone. Steve was preceded in death by his father, Morris Fikes. He is survived by his beloved wife Karen of 42 years; sons, Kevin of Austin, Texas, and Scott (Meaghan) of Little Rock; grandsons, Finley and Miller Fikes of Little Rock; mother, Floy Fikes of Hot Springs; brother, Bruce (Ruth Ann) of Hot Springs; two sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-law; and many loving nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, November 23. The memorial service will be at noon on Monday, November 24. Both services will take place at the First Baptist Church in Jacksonville. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church building fund, 401 N. 1st Street, Jacksonville, Ark. 72076. Special thanks to Dr. Stephen Tilley, Dr. Fred Meadors, Dr. Ian Cawich, and the CVICU nursing staff at CHI St. Vincent Infirmary. Steve will be dearly missed, but his faith in Jesus provides a hope that his family and friends will one day see him again. www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.