of Higden, AR
October 9, 1953 - May 28, 2024
Loren was born to Margaret and Gilbert Hitchcock on October 9, 1953.
He lived a long and fulfilling life and spent his days peacefully retired after 28 years working at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. During his time at the AGFC, Loren served as a Wildlife Officer, Chief Enforcement Officer, Deputy Director and finally Director of the Agency. He is responsible for implementing many internal reforms and policies that directly improved the efficacy and safety of all the AGFC's wildlife officers as well as bolster the commission's ability to keep Arkansas the beautiful state that it is. Loren was well known for his no-nonsense attitude, strong sense of duty and long lasting friendships.
He is survived by his sons, Rustin and Clint; his partner, Shawna; two step-daughters, Krystil McGinty and Meighan Bonner and eight grandchildren, Hayleigh, Rubee Jo, Jocee, Korben, Ava, Baylee, Dylan and Barrett.
A memorial visitation will be held at Roller-Crouch Funeral Home in Batesville on Thursday, June 6, 2024 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm for those who wish to come pay their respects, reminisce, visit and celebrate his life.
Many fond memories of Gib. We had some fun times at ASU including my first trip Memphis to a place called Shakey's Pizza. In 1973 when a tornado hit Arkansas College several of us local guys jumped in Gibs Volkswagen and made a speeding trip from Jonesboro to Batesville to check on family and friends. Rest in peace my friend.
I met Loren through my deceased father-in-law Loyd Millwood from Plainview, AR. Loyd was an enforcement officer with the Game and Fish and worked Yell county while Loren worked an adjacent county. During Loyd’s last days of his life, Loren and Andy Tackett visited Loyd and he was so proud that Loren and Andy Tackett came by and shared old Game and Fish war stories! Such a wonderful thing for a passing comrade!
To Gib's loved ones and friends, condolences. I was honored to count him a friend of mine. We had not visited since we both retired. I was fortunate to get to visit with him on the 6th of May.
Rest in Peace Amigo. You will be missed by many.
Shawna, I'm so sorry for your loss. I always thought a lot of Loren. Prayers for you and the family.
My heart goes out to you Shawna and all of Loren’s family. Peace be with you in this difficult time.
To Loren (Master) I considered you an awesome and honest boss. Hope you always knew that. Karen and I loved giving you a hard time. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work at Game and Fish.
Pam (Grasshopper)
Loren was a good friend. We met on March 31 1985 as we embarked on our careers with the AGFC together. He was a straight spoken person. What you see is what you get. We had some really good times. He once took a 5 gallon bucket of Crappie heads into the courtroom for evidence because the week before he lost a case for failing to show the evidence. lol. He had sand. Praying that the one true GOD gives his family a double portion of his love during this time.
One of my first events I ever went to for AGFC was a local conference in downtown Little Rock. I didn't know a single person at the event but Loren saw my AGFC shirt and came over and said hi. Being brand new to the agency, I didn't know who he was, but he talked me up for a good 10 minutes or so before he had to run off. He told me a few stories and wished me well on my day. Later that week I saw his picture on the wall of Directors at HQ. I thought it was pretty cool that we would do that.
Thoughts and prayers to the family. Thinking of you Shawna.
Our condolences for your loss. He was admired by many and will be missed.
Loren worked with my dad and brother at the Arkansas Game and Fish. He was a good man and honorable man. He will be missed. Joan Davidson
My prayers for all of you in your time of loss. Hugs to Dylan and Barrett from Mrs Dana!
Rustin and Family, I extend my deepest sympathies on the passing of your dear father. I am truly sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincere condolences and may God Bless and comfort you all during this difficult time
My condolences to the family.
Loren was one of a kind and will be missed by all that knew him. As a friend and coworker you could always count on him.
So sorry to hear of Gibs’ passing. We lived in the same neighborhood as kids there in Eastside. We later reconnected when both of our families lived in Heber Springs. Fine man and will be truly missed.
Shawna, you all are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray God holds you close and give you comfort during this difficult loss. I love you and your precious daughters.
Sorry to hear of Gibs passing.
Wonderful man, great to work with.
So sorry to hear about Gib! We were friends in grade school and neighborhood buddies.
I have always looked up to him and he was always there for advice. There’s going to be a hole for a while but I know his coworkers will love to catch up in heaven. Rest easy Loren and I am grateful for everything you have done for me.
Part of our family for many years, sat hello to PD
Gib was a childhood friend that we spent many hours riding our motorcycles together. I am so sorry for your families loss.
Loren was a great man! I only knew him through business & being the father of a friend. He always responded to my Facebook posts and comments. He was a true gentleman that will be missed by many. Prayers for the family & friends.
So very sorry to hear this. Loren was a true gentleman. I met him 7 years ago when he and Shawna drove up to us when we lived in northern Minnesota to come pick up a tower. Rest in peace Loren. Your key is silent but I will always remember you.
I will always remember Gib’s friendship and dedication. Arkansas has lost a true giant.