Obituary published on Legacy.com by Inglesby & Sons Funeral Home - Pennsauken on Oct. 1, 2025.
John Edward Hildebrand, known affectionately as John to his friends and family, passed away Suddenly on December 30, 2024, at the Riverfront Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in
Pennsauken, NJ. Born on January 17, 1954, in Philadelphia, PA, John's life was a tapestry of devotion to his country, love for his family, and passion for his hobbies.
Predeceased by his parents, John Edward Hildebrand Sr. and Evelyn Hildebrand (née Merckx), John carried the legacy of their love and teachings throughout his life. His warm presence and creative spirit were a light to all who knew him.
John's early years were spent in the halls of Pennsauken High School, where he graduated in 1972. His love for knowledge and community led him to proudly serve in the United States Navy, a period during which he upheld the values of dedication and service to his nation. Throughout his life, John remained a proud veteran, often sharing stories of his time in the service with a reflective appreciation.
An avid reader, John found solace and adventure in the pages of books, which allowed him to traverse worlds beyond his own. His love for music was just as profound, with melodies often filling the spaces of his home, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy. John's hands were rarely still, as he channeled his creativity into building intricate model aircrafts and assembling computers, each project a testament to his thoughtful and meticulous nature.
Vacations for John were synonymous with the sandy shores of Wildwood Crest, where he reveled in the tranquility of the ocean and the unbridled joy of beachside living. These moments by the sea were among his most cherished, as they represented a time of relaxation and reconnection with nature's beauty.
John's capacity for love extended to all living creatures, but none more so than his fur baby, Captain, who was his constant companion and source of unconditional affection. He was also a loving brother to his sister, Janet Hildebrand, whose bond with John was built on a foundation of mutual respect, admiration, and unwavering support.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and creativity, remembered by many cousins, friends, and those whose lives he touched. John's ability to listen, his thoughtful advice, and his gentle demeanor will be dearly missed by all.
Relatives and friends are invited to join in celebrating John's life at his memorial service, which will be held on January 25, 2025, from 11 AM to 1 PM. A service will follow at 1 PM at The Inglesby and Sons Funeral Home, located at 2426 Cove Rd.,
Pennsauken, NJ 08109. It will be a time to honor his memory, share stories, and commemorate a life well-lived.
John Edward Hildebrand's journey on earth may have concluded, but the impressions he left on the hearts of those he loved are indelible. His legacy of love, creativity, and thoughtfulness will continue to inspire and guide us. As we bid farewell, we take comfort in knowing that John's spirit soars free, much like the model aircrafts he so lovingly crafted, reaching heights untouched and exploring the vastness of the skies. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of John, please visit our Tree Store.