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Hiram Wilder Obituary
Great Falls —Hiram B. "HB" Wilder, 63, of Great Falls, retired sales consultant for City Toyota, passed away June 28, 2013, after losing his eight-month battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family at home at the time of his passing. HB was born January 23, 1950 in Byron, Georgia, and was raised in Warner Robins, Georgia, with his sister Barbara, and brothers Henry and Ricky. Upon graduation from Warner Robins High School in 1968, he entered the United States Air Force, where he served in the 341st Missile Squadron. HB's military service also included a tour of duty in South East Asia during the Viet Nam conflict. He married his wife of 43 years, Bonita (Bunny) Matt, in October of 1970 in Great Falls. He was honorably discharged from the USAF in 1973.
HB was a long time resident of the area, attended the University of Montana in Missoula, and was active in his Masonic Order. He served as President of the Great Falls Jolly Rogues Clowns for over a decade and was a dedicated performer in numerous 4th of July parades, performing as the driver of the Jolly Rogues Clown Car. He loved the cheers and smiles on the faces of all who attended the annual Shrine Circus, especially the children.
The consummate salesman, HB was noted for his interpersonal skills. He particularly enjoyed interacting with clients and coworkers in the automotive and equipment sales industry for four decades. He retired from City Toyota in 2012.
A dedicated husband father, and grandfather, he loved spending time with this family, especially fishing with his sons and grandsons. HB also enjoyed coaching little league baseball and served on the board of Directors for the Legion baseball program in Missoula. HB loved golf, and was an avid fan of the "Grizzlies". He was also very proud of his distinction as a 32nd degree Master Mason.
HB is survived by his wife Bunny Wilder of Great Falls, his son Hiram B. Wilder III "Traés", his wife, Jayme, and two grandsons, Gavin and Grady of Laurel; sister Barbara Gaddy of Austin, Texas, and brother Richard Wilder of Gainesville, Florida. HB is preceded in death by his son Matt Louis Wilder, his parents Mrs. And Mrs. H.B. Wilder, and his brother Henry B. Wilder.
Services for H.B. will be held Thursday, July 11th, 2013, at 2:00 PM at Hillcrest Lawn Chapel in Great Falls.
Condolences for the family may be posted on www.schniderfuneralhome.com. SCHNIDER FUNERAL HOME
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Memories and Condolences
for Hiram Wilder
Mike Maher
May 15, 2018
I worked with HB so many (many) years ago and wasn't sure what prompted me to go out and seek an old and noble friend. Saddened that the time has passed and I missed not staying in closer contact. So very sorry, to Bunny and your family that my condolences were not more timely. Truly a great man, husband and probably best of all, father! Vaya con Dios... mjm
Rex& Linda Gibbs
July 9, 2013
I always enjoyed working with HB and appreciated his sincere and honest attitude. Our deepest sympathy to his family.
Paula Baroch
July 2, 2013
Bunny & family,
I am so deeply sorry to hear about HB. You are in my thoughts & prayers. All my love,
Paula
D Goering
July 1, 2013
And the Lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Lay down thy working tools Brother Hiram, thy work is done.
July 1, 2013
HB was one of a kind and was as solid a husband,father,friend,co-worker and human being as your going to find.. I knew him a shory time but he became my friend and I will miss him immensely...Jim Walker
City Motor Employees
July 1, 2013
There's a hum of grief in the air at City Motors today. Among all the employees who had the blessing to know you are now cherishing the moments spent with you. All the smiles you brought to our atmosphere with your clownish and thoughtful personality will be missed. Although we are sad, there is a glimmer of happiness knowing that you are finally no longer suffering and you get to be with you well missed son in Heaven. Bunny we are deeply sorry for your loss. RIP HB
Megan McKiernan
July 1, 2013
HB was the nicest, kindest, man and will truely be missed. Bill and I used to love seeing Hb coming in the Barbershop and joking around with us. Our prayers are with your family. BILL AND MEGAN RIVERVIEW BARBERSHOP.
Shannon Yaeger-Tank
June 30, 2013
Bunny and family,
I am so saddened to read of HB's passing. He will always have a special place in my heart. What an amazing man.
Bones
Joe "WoJo" Vachal
June 30, 2013
Above everything else, HB loved little kids. I will miss you, Brotha from anotha Motha".
Joe "WoJo" Vachal
June 30, 2013
The Clown's Prayer -
As I stumble through this life,
help me to create more laughter than tears,
dispense more cheer than gloom,
spread more cheer than despair.
Never let me become so indifferent,
that I will fail to see the wonders in the eyes of a child,
or the twinkle in the eyes of the aged.
Never let me forget that my total effort is to cheer people,
make them happy, and forget momentarily,
all the unpleasantness in their lives.
And in my final moment,
may I hear You whisper:
"When you made My people smile,
you made Me smile."
June 30, 2013
Our hearts go out to you Bunny and Traes and family. HB will be missed by all of us.
Love and Prayers Bob and Rose Sorensen
Glen & Debbie Kimball
June 30, 2013
Bunny & Family,
So sorry to hear about HB. Lots of memories of the baseball days, seeing HB all dressed up as a clown in the parades, always with a smile on his face. May all of your happy memories help you through the times of tears. Love, hugs and prayers.
Nancy Bernier
June 30, 2013
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will hold all of you in my prayers..God bless and keep you..
Randie Swingley
June 30, 2013
Bunny and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you
Sharon Yaeger
June 30, 2013
Bunny, Trae, Jayme and the boys, I am so sorry. HB was such a dear friend. So many wonderful memories that we made since meeting HB in 1981. My love to each of you. Sharon
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