Fred Leonard Hillow

Fred Leonard Hillow, a beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully at home on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 12, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, to George A. and Dolores (Elias) Hillow, who predeceased him. Fred lived a life marked by his unwavering positivity, resilience in the face of adversity, a passion for education & mentoring, and by being a loyal friend to many.

Fred was a devoted family man, leaving behind his loving wife of 51 years, Karen Kristine "Kris" (Schenk) Hillow, along with their two children, Valerie Dee Gates (Eddie) and Kevin Christopher Hillow. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Maggie and Lillie, who adoringly called him Baba. He is also survived by his brothers, George A. Hillow (Lynn) and Regis F. Hillow, and the late Gregory C. Hillow. Fred's family circle extended far and wide, with many special cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws and even friends who were like family. His warm heart and generous spirit were evident in so many ways, including the weddings he officiated for loved ones and the eulogies he delivered for friends and family, all serving as a testament to the deep relationships he built.

Fred was a 1969 graduate of Lakewood High School and then obtained his bachelor's degree from Edinboro University. From there, he earned his Master of Education degree from Cleveland State University and did extensive post-graduate coursework, including the Weather head School of Management at Case Western Reserve University, where he was a Pogue Educational Fellow. He dedicated his career to the field of education, beginning as a teacher and a coach, and then serving as a school administrator for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. After 31 years in the district, he retired as principal of Walton School, then went on to serve as interim principal at 40 schools over the course of 14 more years. His impact reached far beyond his role in the classrooms; he inspired thousands of students and colleagues alike. He served as district 11 representative for the state board of education, and as treasurer of the Cleveland Council of Administrators and Supervisors for many years. Attending state and national educators' conventions as part of this volunteer role was a special privilege that he enjoyed.

Fred was also committed to his Catholic faith and often told stories about his experience as a student and as an altar boy serving Mass at St. Rose of Lima. In his later years, he was a proud member of the Avon Knights of Columbus Father Ragan Council #3269. A man of many interests, Fred found joy in being an active member of Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club in Fort Myers, FL, and had a lifelong passion for his favorite teams, the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes. He was a proud lifetime member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, even serving as Chapter President. It is here where he first became a member of the infamous Cardinal Puff Club.

Fred Hillow's life will be celebrated through a series of services that reflect the love he shared and the legacy he leaves behind. On Sunday, September 21, 2025, friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation at Busch Funeral Home in Avon, OH at 32000 Detroit Rd. 44011, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 33601 Detroit Rd, Avon, OH 44011, at 10:00 AM, on Monday, September 22. Fred's final resting place will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Avon.

He was a fighter in every sense, having persevered through health challenges that would have defeated many, yet he lived well beyond expectations with grace and determination. Fred will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire those he leaves behind, reminding us all to embrace life with the same optimism and resolve he exemplified every day.