Frederick Charles Hilker

Fred spent 21 years in the British Army with the 14th/20th King’s Hussars, Royal Armoured Corps. The first few years were spent with the Cavalry in India until the war broke out in 1939 when he was dispatched to Persia to drive a tank. His tank blew up after hitting a land mine in 1939 as a result he was honoured by “Mention in Dispatch for Distinguished Service” for Iraq, Syria and Persia then again in 1941 in India for his continued honourable contributions. Fred was further honoured with the 1939/1945 Stars, as well as Service Medals for France and Germany, along with Defense and War Medals for the same years.

He then became a truck driving instructor/mechanic and carpenter while still serving with the military. While stationed in Catterick Camp, Fred met Margaret and they were married on June 19, 1950.

They lived in married quarters where Frederick Jr. was born August 29th, 1951.

He was re-dispatched in March of 1954 for duty in Tripoli. Their second son Michael was born August 2nd, 1954.

Fred returned to England in October 1954 to see his family leave on a ship for Canada. He was discharged from the army to join them in Toronto on December 24th, 1954.

In Canada, his 3rd child Darlene was born August 10th, 1958.

Fred was employed as a mechanic and later as Head Custodian for the York Region Board of Education until he retired in 1983.

He served as Sergeant of Arms at Belhaven Legion for 10 years. He enjoyed travelling, camping, bowling and cruises with Margaret. He saw his children get married and the birth of his only grandchild Jennifer on November 14th, 1980. Fred and Margaret spent the last 25 years living in Aurora and Newmarket. In memory of Frederick Charles Hilker donations can be made to the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL), Branch # 385, Poppy Fund, 105 Industrial Pkwy North, Aurora, ON, L4G 4C4