Harry "Rupe" Hilton

Rupe helped me start my career as Santa. After semi-retiring at a fairly early age, I was talking one day with Pastor Doug Langholz at Magnolia Lutheran Church and he suggested to me that I could become a Santa. He said I should talk to Rupe who could give me all the details of what it means to be a Santa and how to get into the business. Well I followed his advice and have now been a Santa for 18 years, and I'll always remember Rupe as a great man who got me going in that direction.

Rupe was not only my best friend but he was my step father. What a blessing he was in my life! My first memory of Rupe was in Troop 85 when my family couldn't afford to send me to Camp Brinkley for summer camp. Rupe asked his American Legion Post if they would pay my way. They did and thus began a yearly scholarship in Troop 85 where his American Legion Post would sponsor a Scout or sometimes two or three Scouts so they could attend camp. Rupe just spent his time helping others, and he never...

I knew Rupe for many years at work and what I remember most was how pleasant a conversation with him was. I can say that everyone I knew loved working with Rupe.

Rupe was the kind to never let you get away with less than you were capable of and was an example for scouts everywhere. Many great memories of him at camp over the years. Rupe will be missed but not forgotten.

I always looked forward to Rupe and his boys every summer I worked at Brinkley. I can honestly say that I have nothing but VERY fond memories of him. We will miss him dearly.

I've known Rupe since about 1989 through Aurora District Camporee and Camp Brinkley. What a class act. I know for a fact that there are thousands of people who remember him, whether it be from a momentary encounter while he played Santa, or a lifetime of meetings. I'll never forget you Rupe!

Rupe you will be missed here at scout camp
Rang ranger Dave

He wouldn't remember me - but I remember him. And fondly. He was goodness. Letting boys develop relationships with men like him is what makes scouting good.

Love you Father Dear