Herbert Charles Hildebrandt's Obituary
From tending his meticulous garden filled with his favorite rhododendrons to building tree forts in the backyard, Dad filled our lives with love, adventure, and countless cherished memories. It is with both sorrow and gratitude that we share the passing of our father, Herbert Charles Hildebrandt.
Born on March 13th, 1936, in Auburn, Indiana, Dad embodied resilience, confidence, and determination throughout his life. A proud graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor's in Physical Education, he was president of his senior class and even signed Mom's diploma—a treasured family story we often share.
After serving as a pilot in Vietnam, Dad's adventurous spirit led our family on a cross-country journey from Indiana to Washington in his beloved dark forest green '66 Ford Mustang. With six of us packed into that Mustang, we made memories that we still laugh about today.
Dad began his career teaching elementary physical education and coaching softball, sharing his passion for sports and instilling the value of teamwork and perseverance. He loved playing basketball with us, especially games of "horse," and never missed an opportunity to engage in friendly competition.
Dad dedicated the majority of his career to the Air Force, serving his country as a pilot in Vietnam and throughout the globe. His awards in the military include: Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Star, Air Force Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Aware with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters.
In Lakewood, Washington, Dad was a pillar of the community. He served as president of the Lakewood Lions Club, volunteered with Caring for Kids, and was a devoted member of St. John Bosco Catholic Church for over 40 years. His commitment to helping others and his community involvement taught us the importance of giving back.
At home, Dad was always busy—whether crafting woodworking projects, tending to his gardens, or planning our next camping trip to a national park. He and Mom, Patricia Hildebrandt, would often visit nurseries together, picking out daffodils and sharing their love for gardening.
Dad recently remarried his late wife's best friend before his passing, Rita Kuklish-Hildebrandt, who remains close with his children.
We, his children—Cheryl Cresci, Kathy Gerstle, and Kevin Hildebrandt—are profoundly grateful for the love, lessons, and laughter Dad brought into our lives. His hardworking nature, loyalty to his friends (many of whom he stayed in touch with since high school), and his unwavering support as a father will always be remembered. He is also survived by six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
As we say goodbye, we find comfort knowing he is reunited with Mom and our brother, Scott Hildebrandt, who preceded him in passing. Dad's legacy of love and resilience lives on in each of us.
We love you, Dad, and we'll hold your memory close to our hearts forever.
In lieu of flowers, the family would ask for donations to Caring for Kids, an organization Dad volunteered with and cherished with all of his heart: https://caringforkids.charity/
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