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Earl L. Hilden

1930 - 2025

Earl L. Hilden obituary, 1930-2025, Ludington, MI

BORN

1930

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Grace Funeral Home & Cremation Services

3060 W. US Highway 10

Ludington, Michigan

Earl Hilden Obituary

Earl L. Hilden, 95, of Ludington, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Earl was born on February 14, 1930, the son of the late Vern and Dorthy (King) Hilden. After graduating from Ludington High School in 1948, Earl dedicated himself to serving his country by joining the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. Upon his honorable discharge, Earl returned to Ludington where he began a long and respected career with C & O Car Ferries. Starting as a coal passer, he committed 32 years to the company before retiring in 1986.

Earl was also a talented harmonica player and enjoyed performing with the Rendezvous Band at various local venues. His passion for melody brought joy to many and spoke to the generous and kind spirit that defined him.

He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca (Hilden) Pearson; sister, Edith Sawdy; various nieces and nephews; and long-time friend, Bill St. Louis.

Earl was preceded in death by his father, Vern Hilden; mother, Dorothy (King) Hilden; and brother, Melvin Hilden.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services (formerly Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington), www.GraceCremations.com.

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

Published by Ludington Daily News from Aug. 12 to Aug. 13, 2025.

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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.

Funeral services provided by:

Grace Funeral Home & Cremation Services

3060 W. US Highway 10, Ludington, MI 49431

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