Louis A. Hillard

On Sept. 17, 2013, Louis A. Hillard, 97, went home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He was born on Curry Hill, Plymouth Township, on March 15, 1916, as part of our greatest generation. He survived diphtheria and the Great Depression, enlisting in the Army in 1939.

During World War II, he became part of George Patton's Army and participated in the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, Italy and Southern France. He rose to the rank of sergeant, earning a Purple Heart, five Bronze Stars, a Bronze Arrow and several campaign medals.

In 1949, he married the love of his life, Eleanor Ferris, and together they had 3 children; Ron, Mary Ann, and Louis David.

Lou spent over 30 years as a welder and president of his local Machinists Union at Air Products and Chemicals. He loved to fish and hunt with his sons and his friends from Curry Hill.

In addition to his wife and children, Louis is survived by his brother, Harry, and his wife, Patricia; Ron's wife, Suzanne; Mary Ann's husband, Joe; and Louis David and his fiancée, Mary; grandchildren, Donora Ann, Michael, Justin and Ashleigh; great-grandchildren, Connor and Jordan.

A memorial service will be held at some time in the future.

We would like to thank Pastor Pat Colladay, the staff of Sacred Heart Hospice, the nurses of St. Luke's Hospice, Dr. Joseph Szustak, and John Rosecrans CRNP for their great care and compassion.

Often a quiet man in life, Pop's family knew that when he spoke, it was with great intention, kindness and often humor. We will have fond memories of him saying grace at holiday dinners, and his presence was a constant reminder of loyalty to one's family and morals. As a father, husband and son, there was no one better on GOD's Earth and he had no enemies.

Please visit www.sjgrontkowskifuneralhome.com to submit online condolences.