Michael J. Hilber

Michael J. Hilber,
Musician and retired MPS teacher, Michael J. Hilber of Milwaukee, 65, peacefully passed away in hospice on July 20, 2024. This followed a courageous 30 plus year battle with Parkinson's disease. His optimism and kindness throughout his life was an inspiration to many.
Born on March 20, 1959, he grew up on the north side of Milwaukee then moved to Mequon with his family in 1972, graduating from Homestead High School in 1977. He graduated from UW Madison in 1983 with a BS in education. He spent his teaching career with Milwaukee Public Schools and loved the city of Milwaukee.
He was preceded in death by his beloved life partner and wife of 20 years, Theresa (Hadnot), parents John and Mary Ellen Hilber (Gremminger), niece Nyah Chatman, cousin Steven Stelloh, and sister in-law Debra Hadnot Smith. He is survived by his beloved son Brandon Hadnot (Shaneila), step granddaughter Enara, and grandson Theo Michael, and his devoted sister and brother in-law, Ann and Randy Cook.
He is also survived by his brother in-law and dear friends Kelvin Hadnot and Geri Washington, loving sister in-law, Ira Hadnot Alexander (Darrell), faithful brother in-law Dextra Hadnot, beloved aunt and godmother Barbara Stelloh (Gremminger), and loved uncle James Gremminger along with several cousins.
He is survived by many nieces and nephews, several whom he helped raise including Sheridan Shauntee, B.J. Smith, Khiara Chatman, and Taylor Chatman. Also Mary Smith, Ira Smith, Dorries Smith Sr., Kennon Hadnot, Tyra Hadnot, Danielle Hadnot Worden (Chris), Evan Hadnot, Erin Cook, Jason Cook (Melissa), and Shannon Nykamp (Alex) along with great nieces, nephews, other beloved family members and dear friends.
He was a man of many gifts and talents who often marched to a different drummer. His caring, generous, and humorous spirit was a blessing to many. He retired from teaching at John Marshall High School as a communication, broadcasting, and math instructor. He led debate, forensics, and the yearbook. His low key and patient approach made him a favorite among his students.
As a father, he taught Brandon how to be a "gentleman and a scholar". He showed him a definition of masculinity which was calm, never displaying rage, violence, or hatred for another. He strived to uplift the spirits of others-family, friends, students and even his nurses and care givers. His sense of humor and charm was unmatched, and he would often end each encounter with a joke. Michael was thrilled to meet Brandon and Shaneila's son, Theo Michael, and to be able to hold him.
As a gifted musician who played bass and acoustic guitar along with keyboards, he was able to play and write many songs. He loved performing in his bands with his friends, especially with the group Envoy. Playing at Summerfest was one of his life's highlights. He always had a musical reference or song to share as music was one of his biggest joys.
Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, August 17, from 9:00 AM -11:00 AM at CHURCH AND CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME, 15250 W. National Ave., New Berlin with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research are appreciated. A special thanks to the staff at AccentCare Hospice and New Perspective Senior Living, Franklin.
Church & Chapel Funeral Service Serving the Family Milw. 262-827-0659 Wauk. 262-549-0659 Online Obit, Condolences, Directions www.churchandchapel.com