Bill Hilmes passed away on January 28, 2026, at the age of 71. He was born on November 28, 1954, in Denver, Colorado, to Bill Sr. and Mercedes Hilmes. Bill lived a life marked by love, faith, and enduring optimism. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Hilmes, with whom he shared 42 cherished years of marriage. Together they raised three daughters - the late Elizabeth Hilmes, Angie Hilmes, and Janelle Bruns (Jake) - and were blessed with a granddaughter, Laurel Elizabeth Bruns. Bill is also survived by his sister, Judy White (Dave).
Bill’s family was the center of his world. He met Carol through the church singles group, where he served as a worship leader and shared his love for music and faith. Bill showed extraordinary compassion and patience in caring for Liz, his daughter with special needs. His faith was the foundation of everything he did. Bill had unwavering love for Jesus which brought him peace, strength, and comfort throughout his life.
Bill embraced life with a spirit of adventure. As an avid mountain climber, he summited all 54 of Colorado’s 14ers. Bill found joy in black diamond skiing, fishing, mountain biking, camping, four-wheeling, and playing pickleball and guitar. Bill’s love for travel was evident in the detailed family trips he planned each year. He found special joy snorkeling in the ocean.
Bill earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Bethany College in Kansas and later a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Colorado Denver. He became certified as a Professional Engineer and spent many years working with several engineering firms, retiring in January 2022. An early career highlight was his time as a baggage handler for Frontier Airlines in Denver, a role that sparked his lifelong love of travel.
Bill’s legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the love he so freely gave. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 9, 2026, at 10:00 am at Plum Creek Church (960 I-25, Castle Rock, Colorado). Reception to follow.
"For you will go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55:12.
