Richard (Rick) Norman Hilborn

Born in Cambridge, ON October 17, 1949 - December 17, 2020

With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Rick at home with his family after a lengthy journey with cancer.

Survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Nancy Macnaughton-Hilborn. He was a truly dedicated father to his three children, Ian (Nathalie), Mackie (Shannon), and Lisa (Tyler) Laycock. Proud Papa Trick to grandchildren Mitchell, Marty, and Penelope. Survived by his mother Laurette (Ron) Pond and brother Michael. He was a loyal friend, brother-in-law, nephew, and uncle to many. Rick was predeceased by his father R.C. Hilborn and his sisters Karen Chaplin and Kirsten Andrews.

Rick was educated at Hillfield Strathallan and Upper Canada College followed by Wilfrid Laurier University and OISIE - University of Toronto. Rick and Nancy created Hilborn Pottery in 1979 in Cambridge and have continued alongside their dedicated team selling pottery across North America for over 40 years. He was board President of the Canadian Gift and Tableware Association from 2005-2007.

Rick was a hockey fanatic, golf enthusiast, tennis and cards player (he won the final game of cribbage) and especially a lover of all sports, following all leagues. He took much pleasure in watching the Hawks win multiple Stanley Cups at the peril of Leafs fans - GO HAWKS. He was a top-10 ranked junior tennis player in Canada as a teenager. Rick spent over 25 years coaching, mentoring and building Minor Hockey in Cambridge. He was supervisor of travel coaches for three years. He was also involved as a part-owner of the Cambridge Winter Hawks.

Where Rick shined the most was his love and devotion to friends, family and those he met along the way. He was known for being a kind soul and connected to everyone he met. He brought out the best in people and inspired all those around him. He put family first and always sacrificed for others. He was a true role model and was loved in his community. Rick was a natural teacher and leader, he had a quick wit, and his humour and laugh were contagious. He had an extensive knowledge of politics, history, and most importantly, rock and roll. He was also fascinated by nature, always tending to his beloved bird feeders and being able to spot a red-tailed hawk from any distance. Travel was another one of Rick’s passions and he and Nancy visited Israel and Jordan as recently as October 2019. Other highlights include a safari in South Africa, a family trip to Bangkok and Beijing, Egypt and seeing the shores of Normandy in France, and Rick always had a great interest in Nicaragua.

One last 17 for our Dad. Thank you Dad, for everything. We will miss you so much but we will be ok because of the unbreakable family bond that you and Mom created. We know you’ll watch over us. And we’ll be listening. Rest Easy, Dad. We love you.

Cremation and a family visitation have taken place. A Rocking Celebration of Life will be held for Rick when restrictions lift. In memory of Rick, donations may be made to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.

The family would like to thank Princess Margaret Hospital for their specialists and clinical trials and the LHIN of Waterloo Region which allowed Rick to stay at home with his family.

If you would like to reflect upon Rick, please do so while listening to Got To Be Free by the Kinks.