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Durango, Colorado

Barry Hillmer Obituary

Dr. Barry Hillmer died at home on Monday, October 8, 2018 after a long battle with heart disease at the age of 79. He was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. Barry completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania, followed by his Medical Degree at the University of Nebraska, where he met and married Cynthia Lee Grimm, his wife of 53 years and became a diehard Nebraska Cornhusker fan. After completing his residency, Barry moved his family to Durango where he shared his passion for the outdoors. Here, he joined the Durango Orthopedics Association in 1972 and practiced as a surgeon for 28 years.

Many consider Barry a surrogate father because he was a man of generosity and acceptance for all. He is a legend among the Durango Bridge community, a true master of the game. He loved ice cream for breakfast, ice cream for lunch, and ice cream for dinner with a couple cookies for snacks in between. He always had a diet coke in hand and would never miss the opportunity to indulge in a burger, fries, and shake. Grandpa Barry will always be known for his wacky white socks that he wore with sandals, his bad driving, his passion for history and learning, and his love for books. He was an avid competitor yet would share and teach at any opportunity whether it be golf, swimming, tennis, racquetball, chess, running, biking, backpacking, or skiing. He would never turn down a grandchild's request for a game of Sorry or cards, a trip to the pool, or a good movie. He persevered through his health issues, playing golf and bridge as long as he could.

Barry is survived by a large and loving family: Wife Cindy, Daughters Kelly Powell, Wendy Hillmer, Ashley Hillmer, and Mandy Butterstein, foster daughter Elsie Hughes, five grandchildren, and his sister, Connie Herrick.

In honor of Barry, vote in every election possible. Donate to a charity of your choice under his name, or to Jolean Scott and her family at gofundme.com/a-gift-of-time-for-jolean-scott. A celebration of life for Barry will be held shortly.

Published by The Durango Herald on Oct. 11, 2018.
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Hi Cindy,
I was looking for people who were very important to me in my early years and found sadly that Barry had died. Ron and I remember you both so fondly from the days when we had our babies together. Please know that even though we have not been together in many decades, you and your family has often been in our thoughts.
Avie Overbach Cohen and Ron Cohen
Birmingham, Alabama

Avie and Ron Cohen

January 24, 2020

I am so sorry for your loss. Barry was always so kind to me when I worked at Mercy and it brightened my day to see his smile. I will have a bowl of ice cream in his honor.

Joan Mansky Laubach

November 27, 2018

Barry (and Cindy) were amazing parents and caretakers of countless kids in the Durango community. They provided a place of love and safety, and made everybody feel welcome and taken care of. My condolences to all of the Hillmer ladies...I'm happy to know that he left you all with a life of love, opportunity, and open hearts. Be well on your journey. Traveling mercies...

Sasha Seyb

October 27, 2018

Barry was a fellow lover of the game and a worthy opponent at the bridge table. I know the Durango Bridge Club will miss him, but so will all of western Colorado bridge.

Jeanette Roberts
Black Canyon Bridge Club
Montrose, Colorado

October 20, 2018

Barry was my american father during my year abroad in the States. I couln't be luckier. First time I saw him tought he was the tallest man on earth, while I was a very little spanish girl. He had a always a smile on his face and kind words. Barry, Cindy and the girls, my sisters in heart, made my year unforgsttable. I miss miss Barry and felt so sad for his Lost. From the distance I send all my love and condolences.

Ana Garcia Rollan

October 16, 2018

Yours was a love of a lifetime, Cindy. I am so sorry for your loss, and I send you much love and light from afar.

dianne carley lancaster

October 14, 2018

dianne carley lancaster

October 14, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family, the community of Durango, and the Durango Bridge Club have all lost a wonderful member we will all miss very much. I am grateful to have known Barry through Bridge. He was an outstanding individual. Sincerely, Norma Gautier Phillips

Norma Gautier Phillips

October 12, 2018

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