Edward R. “Eddie” Hykel Jr. of West, Texas, passed away on March 28, 2023, while on call with the West Volunteer Fire Department.

Eddie was born November 7, 1962, in Waco, Texas, the son of Barbara (Hessel) and Edward Hykel Sr. He was a 1981 graduate of West High School. On September 13, 1986, he was united in marriage to Janet Gerick in Tours.

Eddie had worked in the public works department for the city of West since March 2007. Prior to that, he worked for Huck Manufacturing for 19 years. Eddie had been a very active member of the West Volunteer Fire Department since 2011. He was a member of the SPJST Lodge #6 in Cottonwood and St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Tours.

Eddie enjoyed restoring old tractors and trucks, painting anything he could get his hands on, working in his pasture, and messing with his cows. He was very outspoken, never met a stranger, and was always there to lend a helping hand. He loved spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 37 years, Janet Hykel; his mother, Barbara Jean Hykel; his children, Chris Hykel (Sammy Jo) and Ashley Mynarcik (Chad); his grandchildren, RaeLynn Ward, Dylan Cassity, Luke Mynarcik, and Dannie Mynarcik; his brothers, Bobby Hykel (Kathy), Terry Hykel (Shanona Goodman), and Keith Hykel (Kelly); his sisters, Karen Holder (Selby) and Lanette Gerik (James); his sisters-in-law, Patricia Reesing (Robert), Bernice Gerik, and Jilji Gerik; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Eddie was preceded in death by his father, Edward Hykel Sr.; parents-in-law, Leona and Eugene Gerik Sr.; and brother-in-law, Eugene Gerik Jr.

Eddie was a friend to many who made life better for those he knew. He was remembered as trustworthy and loyal, a good family man who was dedicated to family, community, and the fire department.