Search by Name

Search by Name

Peter Hilton Obituary

Peter Hilton, 87, Distinguished Professor of Mathematics at Binghamton University, died on Saturday, November 6, 2010. He is survived by his wife Margaret, sons and daughter-in-law, Nicholas Hilton, Binghamton and Timothy and Catherine Hilton, Seattle, WA; two grandsons; one great-granddaughter; and brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Sydney and Mary Hilton, North Wales, U.K. Peter was born in London, and educated at Oxford University. During World War II, at age 18, he was recruited from Oxford, because of his mathematical ability and knowledge of German, to work at Bletchley Park, the secret British facility dedicated to breaking German codes. This project was led by Alan Turing, the celebrated mathematician and founder of computer science, with whom the young Peter Hilton worked closely. Initially, Peter worked on breaking the Enigma code, and, later, on the more refined Fish code. Once the British Official Secrets Act was lifted in the 1980's, his lectures about the years at Bletchley Park were highly popular at venues all over the world. He gave several such lectures at Binghamton University. After the War, Peter obtained his doctorate from Oxford. Peter went on to hold academic positions at Cambridge and Manchester Universities, and a Chair at the University of Birmingham. In 1962, he moved to the United States where he was Professor of Mathematics, first at Cornell, then at the University of Washington and the Battelle Institute. He held the Louis D. Beaumont Chair at Case Western Reserve University for a number of years, ending in 1982 when he became Distinguished Professor at Binghamton University, retiring in 1995. Peter Hilton was one of the most influential mathematicians of his generation. He made major contributions to algebraic topology and homological algebra. His influence on these subjects has been profound. In his later years he was also a significant figure in Mathematics Education, especially in Continental Europe. He published hundreds of research articles and many books on mathematics and mathematics education, and he lectured at conferences into his mid-eighties. Funeral services will be private. Peter's family will welcome friends to a celebration of his life the date and time of which will be announced shortly. Memorial contributions in Peter's name may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104. Expressions of sympathy for the family may be forwarded to www.demunnfh.com. Arrangements for the family are directed by DeMunn Funeral Home.

Published by Press & Sun-Bulletin on Nov. 8, 2010.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Hilton

Sponsored by Ron Hirshon.

Not sure what to say?





In the early stages of my academic career,my math department forwarded my work to Peter to comment on. It might have been about tenure or promotion. I don't recall which. I believe Peter would always find something good to say and that defined Peter. I miss him

May 13, 2019

Ron Hirshon

May 11, 2019

Emilio Lluis, father and son, both mathematicians, give our condolences to the Hilton´s family. Peter was a very good friend of us and colaborator with Mexico's mathematical community for decades. We are very sad to miss a great friend and mathematician.

November 18, 2010

Peter was a marvelous fellow. An eminent mathematician and a delightful companion. He put people at ease with his friendly manner and enthralled them with his stories, his shrewd perception, and his beautiful command of the English language. Peter Hiltons do not come along that often, and he will be sorely missed.

With deepest sympathy,
Mike Taylor

Michael Taylor

November 11, 2010

I was fortunate to have known Peter for a short time. He is truly one of the most amazing people I have ever met, not just because of all he accomplished in his life but because of his spirit. He was always so kind and gracious no matter how his day may have been going. I am so glad that I had the time I had with him. He has left quite a legacy to this world and has been a blessing to many. God Bless you Meg, Nick, Tim, and family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Heather Norris CNA

November 8, 2010

I have known the Hilton family for 12 years.Nicky and i are considered close friends.This family is the most classiest family i have ever met. The first time i met Mr Hilton,i was just so uptight.He was the best ,i always tried to make him laugh,just to see that other side.he always welcomed me into thier home,just to talk a little.As in life and death ,Mr Hilton will always be one of the most brillant people i will ever meet Jimmy, Tracy

jimmy mastrogiovanni

November 8, 2010

I have known the Hilton family for 12 years.Nicky and i are considered close friends.This family is the most classiest family i have ever met. The first time i met Mr Hilton,i was just so uptight.He was the best ,i always tried to make him laugh,just to see that other side.he always welcomed me into thier home,just to talk a little.As in life and death ,Mr Hilton will always be one of the most brillant people i will ever meet Jimmy, Tracy

November 8, 2010

My sympathy to Peter's family for his loss- take good care,
Rev. Janet Abel
Elizabeth Church Manor

Janet Abel

November 8, 2010

Such a short term acquaintance, but such a permanent impact! Meg, Nick and Tim, our deepest respect and appreciation for Peter and your family, will follow us for life. We will miss Peter’s kind smile and gentle manner, and our daily discussions about life in general.

This brief time that we have spent together has truly been “our pleasure”. God bless you for the care that you provided to Peter and the joy that you provided to all of the rest of us.

Love and Best Wishes,

Bill, Patti and Helen

The Samsons

November 8, 2010

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Make a Donation
in Peter Hilton's name

Memorial Events
for Peter Hilton

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Peter's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Peter Hilton's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more