It is with great sorrow to announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Hilton on June 15th, 2015. He was born on February 1, 1916 in Vancouver B.C. but lived in Courtenay, B.C. for many years with his family.
Dick is survived by his three sons Richard (Lisa), Robert (Carol) and Casey (Sherri), and grandchildren, Bryce and Reid. He was predeceased by his wife Mary “Molly” Hilton (nee Rickson) and daughter Linda.
Dick grew up in Winnipeg, M.B., and stayed there until graduating from Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute in 1934. In his senior year at school, his team won the Manitoba championship in Basketball. Shortly after graduating, he moved back to Vancouver, and worked a gold dredge on the Klondike River. While he was working on the river, Dick was called to duty for World War II.
He joined the military and was requested to be a member of a new elite unit called the First Special Service Force. This elite unit was highly respected for their heroic efforts, and feared by the enemy. In February, 2015, the First Special Service Force received the Congressional Gold Medal from the US Congress.
Dick had many interests and hobbies that he enjoyed. He was an avid golfer, and a member of the Shriners and Masons.
His last final years were spent living at the Comox Valley Seniors Village where he had many friends and wonderful caregivers.
Special thanks to the Comox Royal Canadian Legion where he recently received his 65 year membership pin.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.
In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Shriners Hospital http://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/. By request of dad there will be no service.