Hanford Community Grieves the Tragic Loss of Beloved Dentist Dr. Wiley M. Elick in Fatal Accident
With deep and heartfelt sorrow, the city of Hanford, California is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Dr. Wiley M. Elick—a highly respected dentist, cherished family man, and deeply valued pillar of the local community. Dr. Elick, whose name became synonymous with compassion, excellence, and integrity in the field of dentistry, passed away in a devastating accident that also left his beloved wife and young granddaughter injured.
The incident occurred earlier this week under still-unfolding circumstances. According to preliminary reports, Dr. Elick was involved in a serious vehicular accident while traveling with his family. Emergency services responded swiftly, but despite their best efforts, Dr. Elick succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His wife and granddaughter, both of whom sustained non-life-threatening injuries, are currently receiving treatment and are expected to recover.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through Hanford, where Dr. Elick was not only a trusted healthcare provider but a friend, mentor, and advocate for public health and wellness. For more than three decades, Dr. Elick operated a private dental practice in Hanford that served generations of families. His gentle demeanor, patient-first philosophy, and exceptional skill earned him the admiration of colleagues and the deep trust of his patients.
“Dr. Elick wasn’t just our dentist—he was part of our family,” said longtime patient Margaret Davison. “He remembered your name, asked about your kids, and treated you with kindness no matter what. He truly cared about people.”
Born and raised in California, Wiley M. Elick earned his dental degree from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. He returned to the Central Valley to begin his practice, choosing to settle in Hanford where he could give back to a growing, tight-knit community. Over the years, he became involved in countless outreach initiatives, school dental education programs, and community health fairs. He also offered his services pro bono to underserved residents, guided aspiring dental students, and contributed to various public health campaigns throughout Kings County.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Elick was a loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a man of quiet wisdom and unwavering integrity. He was known for his warm sense of humor, his love for the outdoors, and his passion for mentoring young professionals. He was often seen walking hand-in-hand with his grandchildren through downtown Hanford or volunteering at local charity events with his wife by his side.
“Wiley was one of those rare people who brought light and compassion to every space he entered,” said close friend and colleague Dr. Lisa Montgomery. “He was generous with his time, honest in his counsel, and deeply committed to his patients and his family. This is a profound loss for all of us.”
In recognition of his decades of service, Dr. Elick was honored multiple times by local civic organizations and professional dental associations. But those closest to him say he never sought accolades—his greatest reward was the opportunity to serve and connect with people on a personal level.
The Elick family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and patients. A community vigil is being organized in front of his dental office this week, where hundreds are expected to gather to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to so many. Flowers, cards, and candles now fill the steps of his office, each one a testament to the countless lives he touched.
Funeral arrangements are currently underway, with a public memorial service planned for next week. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Central Valley Dental Health Foundation or to a scholarship fund being established in Dr. Elick’s name to support local students pursuing careers in dentistry or public health.
Dr. Wiley M. Elick is survived by his wife of 38 years, Laura, their two children, and four grandchildren. Though his passing is an immeasurable loss to Hanford and beyond, his legacy of service, compassion, and integrity will live on in the community he loved so dearly.
In the hearts of those who knew him, Dr. Elick will forever be remembered not just for the care he gave, but for the kindness he embodied—a healer, a family man, and a friend to all.