William "Bill" Hildebrandt

William “Bill” Hildebrandt, at the age of 93, passed into the presence of his Lord and Saviour on Tuesday, August 27th. He is survived by his Beloved wife of 73 years, Jessie, their 4 children, Audrey (Don) Emde, Doug (Michelle), Karen and Lois (Kirk) Hanrahan, 12 Grandchildren and 17 Great Grandchildren.

Dad was born to David and Maria Hildebrandt on July 18,1931. He grew up with 10 brothers and 4 sisters in a village at Gruenthal, SK where he learned to eat fast in case there was more food.

Dad’s career as a salesman started at Marshall Wells where he worked for 22 years, travelling Monday through Friday and ended at Northland Stationers, where he was finally off the road, and where he retired after 21 years at the age of 63. At his passing, dad had been retired for 30 years.

Dad loved his Lord and Saviour, his beloved wife, Jessie and his family. He often said the best gift was a visit from his children and his grandchildren. It was always much anticipated when Dad and Mom came to visit, especially if dad was carrying his tool box! He could fix or build anything! Dad enjoyed remodelling their homes, working on his kids cars, and singing. Dad was known as the George Beverly Shea of Elim Church. He sang on Elim’s TV program, "It’s A Wonderful Life", for many years where his music was enjoyed by people far and wide.

Dad was not one to sit idle. After his retirement, he and mom spent time at Audrey and Don’s farm, helping out wherever needed. He and mom visited their kids often, working on the various projects we had all lined up for him to do. He also worked at Elim Lodge as a handyman, painting, fixing, cleaning, basically whatever was needed to be done, and always with a smile on his face! He was a valued member of Elim Church for 73 years where he served on the board, and as an elder, as an usher, as a greeter, giving of his time to count the offering during the week, singing in the choir and soloing often.

Dad had such a great sense of humour. His dry wit would continuously catch us off guard. He was firm, but loving and would only offer up his words of wisdom when asked. He always encouraged family singing when on long road trips. Not one to enjoy quiet for long, he would whistle and yodel while he worked. In his younger years, he was a lover of hunting and fishing.

Our dad will be greatly missed but we know it’s not forever, it’s just for now.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hyde Park Personal Care Home. Dad and Mom have only been there a short time and the care, compassion and love they have received has meant so much to all of us!

Viewing will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Mourning Glory Funeral Services (1201 8th Street East). A Celebration of Bill’s Life will take place at Elim Church Chapel (419 Slimmon Road) at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 11:30 am. For those wishing to join in the service but unable to attend please watch https://www.youtube.com/live/zr5geXI1wuU, also available through Mourning Glory’s website. Arrangements are in care of Derryl Hildebrandt – Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200. To share memories of Bill or send condolences please visit www.mourningglory.ca.