Dr. Russell Hilf PhD

Dr. Russell Hilf PhD

Russell Hilf Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Brighton Memorial Chapel, Inc. on Sep. 12, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Dr. Russell Hilf (1931-2025), long-time Rochester resident, passed away surrounded by his family and care people on August 27, 2025, at the age of 94.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Beverly S. Hilf; their children, Elise Hilf (Steven) Levine, Merrill J. (Carolyn Placke) Hilf, and Lawrence M. Hilf; grandchildren, Joshua H. (Brooke) Levine and Jacob D. (Alexa) Levine; great-granddaughter, Emma; greyhound granddogs, Ginger, Caldwell, and Chatteroy.

He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He spent many enjoyable, nonscience moments with his wife and family at the Memorial Art Gallery, Geva Theater, and watching baseball and football.

Dr. Hilf was Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. During the course of his long and meaningful scientific career in breast cancer research, he was also an accomplished and effective teacher, colleague, and mentor to many.

Russell's family is grateful to all the extraordinary medical care professionals at Highland Hospital in the ICU and the Palliative Care/Hospice Unit who enabled him to pass away comfortably and peacefully.

Per the families wishes, a private ceremony was held.

Donations may be made in Russell's name to any of the below:

The Wilmot Cancer Center, Strong memorial Hospital
Click HERE to Donate

The Memorial Art Gallery
Click HERE to Donate

Geva Theater
Click HERE to Donate

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Russell's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Russell Hilf's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Russell Hilf's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?