Frank Hill

1929 - 2023

Frank Richard Hill, (93) of Soquel, Ca. passed away peacefully on March 10th, 2023 of natural causes. He was the oldest son to James Wilber Hill and Doris Helen Hill, born September 10th, 1929 in Woodland, Ca.As a long time resident of the area, he began his education at Soquel Elementary, and graduated Santa Cruz High School. He went on to attend Hartnell College and after a stint in the Navy, completed his education at the Academy of Art University. Later in his career, he would have the opportunity to teach cartoon illustration at the University.Frank was to have three children. With Carol Ruth Hill, (1938 to 2013) he was father to Hollie Quinn Hill, (1963 to 2008) and Troy Kelly Hill, (1967). From a prior marriage to Shirley Anne Benge, (1933 to 2023), he has a daughter Debra Ann Hill, (1952).Frank's career was fueled by creativity and the joy of cartooning and illustration. He would claim that he knew he wanted to be a cartoonist by the age of nine. One could find his handiwork in newspapers, books, comics and other varied media. From 1973 to 1982, Frank was responsible for the nationally syndicated cartoon strip 'Short Ribs'. His resume could boast clients including Warner Bros., Hanna Barbera, Marvel Comics, Harvey Comics, United Features and creating Sunday Funnies and comic books featuring Dennis the Menace, Bugs Bunny and Tom and Jerry. This list is far from complete.Over the years, Frank brought smiles to lots of faces. From painting mushrooms at Santa's Village to creating characters for the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, his gift for illustration was even a part of the old Soquel Post Office with the California History murals.Growing up in Capitola, he lived almost across the street from Shadowbrook. He held the title of being their very first dishwasher some seventy years ago. We are certain Frank would want us to toast his well lived life over a martini at Shadowbrook with Dave Brubeck playing 'Take Five" in the background.Frank was predeceased by father, James Hill, mother, Doris Hill, wife Carol Hill and daughter Hollie Hill. He is survived by son, Troy Hill, daughter, Debra Hill and brother Edward Hill.