WILLIAM HILDEBRANT

1950 - 2020

William "Bill" Hildebrant
June 5, 1950 - November 26, 2020

OKLAHOMA CITY
William "Bill" Ruel Hildebrant Jr., 70, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, retired Oil and Gas Industry salesman, lost his two-year battle with cancer on Thursday, the 26th of November 2020.
Bill is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lorraine Hildebrant of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; his sister & brother-in-law, Laura & Dan McNicholas of Auburn, California; son & daughter-in-law, Chris & Stefanie Harris of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; granddaughter, Jade Harris of Yukon, Oklahoma; and nephew, Jay Stephen Hildebrant of Sacramento, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Ruel Hildebrant Sr. & Else Breen Hildebrant of Rocklin, California; his brother, Chief Petty Officer Steve Hildebrant USN Retired of Placer County, California.
Bill was born on June 5th, 1950 in Utica, New York to William Ruel Hildebrant & Else Breen Hildebrant. He graduated from Norman High School in 1968 after relocating with his parents to Oklahoma. He enrolled in the University of Oklahoma in 1968. He studied education and received a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. To support himself during his tender at the University, he opened Munchies Sandwich Shop in Norman, Oklahoma right on the south east corner of Owens Field. After graduating in 1972, he relocated to Irving, Texas to take a position with Goodyear Tire Company. During his time with Goodyear, he was introduced to Lorraine LaPrade. The two were married September 10th, 1976 in Irving, Texas. Thus, was the start of a 44-year love affair. He was introduced to the Oil & Gas industry in 1977 when he took a position with Stewart & Stevenson as the Branch Parts Manager. This was the beginning of a career that moved him and his family to Berkeley, California and back to Oklahoma in 1987 to become the Sales Manager at Duncan Equipment; then Sales Manager at United Engines in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; then, retiring from Warren Caterpillar in March after 16 years of service. Bill was also Chapter Chairman for several chapters for over ten years of the Association of Energy Service Contractors. Bill's continued dedication to the AESC was evident even until his passing. He genuinely believed in what the organization was created to achieve.
Bill was an avid Oklahoma Sooners Athletics Fan across the board. He loved playing golf, listening to his favorite "Classic" music, and most importantly "Winning" trivial pursuit. He still never lost. He and Lorraine traveled to several countries in Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska. He was and an avid "Cruiser". He went on three cruises with his friends and family. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all that knew this gentle giant!
A service is scheduled for 2pm-5pm on December 12th at Mercer-Adams Funeral Service, 3925 N. Asbury, Bethany, Oklahoma 73008. To watch the live stream service or share condolences, visit: www.mercer-adams.com