On Sunday, February 19, 2023, Richard “Dick” Hillenbrand passed away at age 89. Dick was a reserved man of strong moral character with a gentle soul. He was a hardworking, loving, and devoted husband and father and a devout Catholic whose family meant everything to him. Whether setting up the kiddie pool in the backyard,Continue Reading
On Sunday, February 19, 2023, Richard “Dick” Hillenbrand passed away at age 89.
Dick was a reserved man of strong moral character with a gentle soul. He was a hardworking, loving, and devoted husband and father and a devout Catholic whose family meant everything to him. Whether setting up the kiddie pool in the backyard, staking out a good spot to watch the July 4th parade, or teaching his children to portion their popcorn so it would last for the entire movie, he was happiest spending time with his family.
Ensuring that his children received a Catholic education was a priority, and he made many sacrifices to achieve that goal. Dick was an industrial engineer by trade, radio repairman in the Army, Northwestern University night school graduate, and an amateur plumber, roofer, and overall handyman around the house.
He was quick with an adage to share wisdom and purposeful to recognize others and value their presence and opinions. One of his lifelong joys was a good meal. He also appreciated listening to opera, off-beat (but clean) comedy, and automobiles.
Dick was proud of the adults that his children became as well as their accomplishments and his grandchildren.
He suffered a stroke over 30 years ago but managed to maintain a positive outlook and find joy in the little things. He has left an unfillable void and will be greatly missed.
Dick is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Patricia, née Muno; children, Jean (Michael Levine), James (Kathryn), John (Sharon), and Joseph; four grandchildren, including James and Peter. Dick was born to the late Dr. John and Marion, née Wagner, Hillenbrand.
Services are private.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, 4100 W. Ann Lurie Place, Chicago, IL, 60632 (chicagosfoodbank.org).
Funeral info: 847.673.6111 or habenfuneral.com to sign guestbook and to leave a condolence message.
To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Richard "Dick" Hillenbrand, please visit our Tribute Store.
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Gary Butler
left a message on February 27, 2023:
John Lee
left a message on February 27, 2023:
Elizabeth Ogie
left a message on February 26, 2023:
Wendy Derricotte
left a message on February 24, 2023:
Marco Jovanovich
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