Paul L. Hilbert

Paul L. Hilbert, 96, of Mertztown, passed away on Friday, November 10, 2023 in his residence, in the arms of his loving long-time companion, Betty J. (Wertman) Bleiler, with whom he also resided. His wife, Mildred E. (Haas) Hilbert, predeceased him on January 5, 2003. Born in Longswamp Township, Paul was the son of the late Levi J. and Sallie (Beitler) Hilbert. Paul honorably and faithfully served his country in The United States Army during the final months of World War II. He was employed as a mechanic by the former Mente Chevrolet, Kutztown for 12 years retiring in 1991. Prior to that, Paul worked as a mechanic at the former Marshall Chevrolet, Reading for 10 years, the former Kennedy Chevrolet, Kutztown, and the former Leeser Motor Co., Topton in the 1950's and 1960's. He was also a driver at the former Freeman's Dairy, Allentown from 1950 to 1956. Paul was a faithful member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Topton, Ray A. Master Post 217, American Legion, Topton, and Pike Township Sportsmans Association. Paul was a racing enthusiast, having owned the #45 stock car, raced by local racing legend, the late Freddy Hamm, at the former Dorney Park Speedway. Paul also enjoyed attending car cruises, where he showed several of his own antique cars, weekly trips to Horning's Market and keeping his lawn in pristine condition. Paul is survived by his long-time companion Betty, her daughters, Donna B. Grim, and her husband Steve, Alburtis, PA, and Sandra A. Peters, and her husband, Joseph, Laslin, PA; and their families. Along with his wife and parents, Paul was predeceased by his son, Dennis R. "Dippy" Hilbert on March 30, 2020, and two sisters, Iva (Hilbert) Tworkoski and Bertha (Hilbert) Stopp. A funeral service to celebrate and honor Paul's life will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 121 S. Home Avenue, Topton, PA, with The Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Sassaman and The Rev. Scott W. Lingenfelter, co-officiating. Burial, with military honors provided by Ray A. Master Post 217, American Legion Honor Guard, Topton, will conclude services in Topton Union Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Saturday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made in Paul's memory to Trinity Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 37, Topton, PA 19562-0037. Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc., Topton, PA, is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.Ludwickfh.com.