Gary Don Hilderbrand

Gary Don Hilderbrand, 75, of Palestine, IL, passed away on December 4, 2024, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family and the memories of a life well-lived.

Born on Christmas Day, 1948, in Montgomery Township, Crawford County, IL, Gary was a gift to his parents, Don Hilderbrand and Geneva (Martin) Hilderbrand. His humble beginnings shaped his hardworking spirit, which became the cornerstone of his life. He graduated from Palestine High School in 1967, and his life's journey soon took him to Vietnam, where he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Gary's time overseas was marked by courage and resilience. He was among the first troops to enter Cambodia, spending a hellish night surrounded and under fire. His time in Laos and Cambodia was harrowing, and the stories from the book "Nine Days in May" echo his lived experience.

Returning home, Gary threw himself into work, embodying the value of a day well-spent. He was a familiar face at the Standard gas station during his high school years and later ran the G&N Marathon station for close to 15 years. At the same time, he worked as a school bus mechanic and driver for over two decades. Gary's antics endeared him to children and adults alike. As he owned a lot next to the bridge at the Wabash River, he became affectionately known as the "troll of the river bridge," a nickname that worked well with his long hair and bushy beard. In fact, one little boy, Spencer, hilariously mistook him for a real troll and fled the bus in terror, much to Gary's delight!

The Wabash River was Gary's second home, a place where he found joy in fishing and spending time with those he loved. That lot near the bridge was more than a spot by the water—it was a hub of laughter and connection. If you were lucky, you might catch a glimpse of him tinkering with a project (or catching a tiller on fire), all with a beer in hand—Busch Light, of course.

Gary Hilderbrand was a proud American, as evidenced by his membership in the VFW, American Legion, and Amvets. This avid outdoorsman was also a member of the Eastern Illinois Sportsman's Club. Thanks to his efforts, this advocate for Palestine ensured that Casey's would receive a liquor license, and in so doing, he was instrumental in bringing package beer sales to town—thanks, Gary!

Though a man of few words, Gary had a way of making every one of them count. He was fiercely protective of his family, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. He had a knack for pulling pranks and spinning tales—convincing his wife that blind fish lived in their well and that hummingbirds hitched rides on other birds. His laugh, a true treasure, will echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

He is survived by his sons, Gary Gene (Kari) Hilderbrand of Anacortes, WA, and Kenny Hilderbrand of Robinson, IL; his grandchildren, Kayla Dawn Hilderbrand, Ryan Michael Hilderbrand, Kendalyn Currie Hilderbrand, Teo Johnson, Natalie Zak, and Colby Hilderbrand; six great-grandchildren; his life partner, Janet Richardson; his siblings, Carol Jean (Wayne) Decker, Larry Dean Hilderbrand, and Norman Nidey; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 42 years, Nancy; his stepfather, Richard Nidey; and his brother, Vernon McClellan Hilderbrand.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 9th, at Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine, followed by a graveside at Oak Grove Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded and a service will be officiated by Celebrant Curt Goodwine. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Palestine AmVets," with envelopes available at the funeral home.