Michael L. Hillier

Beloved son of Karen Hillier, Michael L. Hillier, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Michael was a lifelong resident of Cape Ann. He attended Landmark School and graduated from Rockport High School with the class of 1986. Michael was a successful student athlete and played basketball during his high school career. After graduation, he spent his adult life working out of Pigeon Cove Harbor and on the water. Michael owned and operated two boats, the Northern Lights and Noah's Arc. He also worked alongside his late father Fred Hillier and brother Pingree on the Blueberry, now known as Olde America. Most recently, he was off-shore fishing out of Boston on The Sammy Joe.
In his free time he loved working with his hands. Michael was a talented craftsman creating elaborate knots with ropes and extra fishing gear or carving and crafting with driftwood and abandoned shells he pulled from his lobster traps or found along the water's edge. When he wasn't working or crafting, he could be found outdoors or on local beaches metal detecting. Michael's smile could light up a room and his kindness and sense of humor will be missed by many. While to some his stature appeared intimidating, he was a gentle giant. He loved animals and accepted people from all walks of life.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his children, daughter Erica Hillier and her husband Matthew of Rockport, son Noah Hillier and his partner Stephanie Samarjian of Gloucester, as well as their mother Melissa Hillier. He also leaves behind his mother, Karen Hillier; sister, Rebecca Chane; brothers, Pingree and Craig Hillier; aunt, Lynda Bjorn; and beloved nieces and nephews, Victoria, Vanessa, Greg, Nadia, Connor, Caroline, Dylan, Kendra, Craig, Gavyn, Michaela and Kyle.
He was predeceased by his father, Fred; sister, Christina; and twin brother Matthew, who undoubtedly welcomed him home with open arms.
Burial will be held privately at a later date.