Dr. Ronald F. Hilding

Dr. Ronald F. Hilding was born on August 7, 1938 in Toledo, Ohio, and passed away peacefully in Glendale, Arizona, on October 23, 2018 after a long illness. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Viola Hilding.

Ron and his parents and brother, Bill, moved to Phoenix in 1946. He excelled academically and graduated with honors from West High School in 1956 and from Phoenix College in 1958. He completed his education at the University of Utah School of Medicine in 1962, and finished his medical residency in 1966.

He served as a Captain in the USAR and was deployed to Vietnam from 1966 through 1968, at which time he was honorably discharged. Upon his return to Phoenix, he began his lifelong career, fulfilling his dream to become a psychiatrist. His practice spanned over 35 years and included private and hospital patient care, as well as teaching at Arizona State University.

Ron never met a stranger, and became lifelong friends with many of those he met throughout his life. He loved to travel the world and was excited to learn about each culture he encountered. He often shared the stories of his travels with his friends and family. His gentle spirit and quick wit will be missed by all.

He is survived by his brother, Bill Hilding (Mary), nephew Brian Hilding (Kelly), and two great nephews, Foster and Cyrus Hilding. In lieu of flowers, Ron wished for donations to be made to Friends of Channel 8 and Hospice of the West Valley.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, November 2, 2018 at 10:30AM at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, AZ 85024