James Craig "Jim" Hileman

Jim Hileman, age 73, passed away peacefully in his home on the evening of November 10, surrounded by his loving family.
Born to James and Mary Hileman on January 6, 1952, Jim grew up with a love for hard work, laughter, and adventure-traits that shaped every chapter of his life. After attending Colorado State University, he moved to Steamboat Springs, where fate (and a trip to the bank) introduced him to Jane, the love of his life and eventual wife of 42 years.
Jim built his career-and much of his life-through his hands and his heart. He worked in construction at Ryan Construction, Wilson Leather, and McDonald's Corporation, and his resourcefulness and craftsmanship was constant through work and life. Even after retiring, he rarely slowed down. He dedicated 40-plus hours weekly alongside Jane as a volunteer at Saint Helena Catholic School for 9 years until her retirement. He was always willing to tackle any job that needed doing and was loved by children and parents.
Though not a veteran, Jim's deep patriotism was unmistakable. Each morning he could be found raising the flag at Saint Helena, often joined by a few smiling children who shared in his quiet pride.
He was loved by many, but none more than the women who filled his life-his wife Jane; daughters Julia (Brian), Maria (Eric), and Margo (Ryan); sisters Anne and Lynne; and his seven beloved grandchildren: Audrey, Emma, Everett, Lyla, Logan, Woods, and Stella. He had a gift for charming every one of them, often with his trademark wit. As he once wrote in his Christmas card, "When I was just a lad, if someone asked me what I wanted out of life, I would have said, 'to travel and be surrounded by beautiful women.'" By that measure, he considered himself a lucky man.
An active soul, Jim ran five Twin Cities Marathons and rarely sat still. Even when faced with multiple system atrophy, he met each challenge with grace, strength, and patience. He and Jane, ever a team, described their shared efforts through his illness as "dancing"- a reflection of their enduring partnership and love.
He truly did "fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7) After supporting his girls in their spiritual lives for many years, he converted to Catholicism in December of 2019. One of his favorite students asked him to be her Confirmation sponsor; it was just the nudge he needed.
Jim will be remembered for his steady kindness, his humor, and the example he set of what it means to live faithfully, work hard, and love deeply.
A funeral Mass will be held at Saint Helena Catholic Church on Saturday, November 15, at 11:00 a.m. A visitation will take place in the upstairs level of the church at 10:00 a.m., and a luncheon will follow the Mass at noon in Rowan Hall, located in the lower level of the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Saint Helena Catholic School in Jim's memory. Contributions may be made online at bit.ly/jimhileman or by sending a check directly to Saint Helena Catholic School. www.Washburn-McReavy.com
Nokomis Park 612-721-1651