Frederic Hilbert

"Lived a life of constant amazement" Frederic Hilbert, age 101 of Sentinel Pointe formerly of Wayland, passed away July 4, 2014. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Laverna and his wife of 23 years, Evelyn; his son Michael; his grandson Todd; his daughter-in-law Lynne Hilbert; his brother Russel and his sisters Juanita and Helen. Fred will be lovingly remembered by his children: Kenneth (Jane) Hilbert, John Hilbert, and E. Scott (Kathleen) Hilbert; his daughter-in-law Jerrie Hilbert; his grandchildren: Blair (Chad) Johnson, Matthew (Courtney) Hilbert, Carson (Justin) Ederle, Vail (Alejandro Fernandez) Hilbert, Andrew Hilbert, Ashley Hilbert, Quinn Hilbert and Zoe Hilbert; his great-grandchildren: Ava, Piper and Cade Johnson, Sophie, Anais and Isla Hilbert, and Skylar Grace Ederle; and many nieces and nephews. Fred attended and played football for Western Michigan University. He was the former owner and operator of the Cowbell Seed Company which he began in 1930, and was later named Amturf Seeds. Fred founded the Plank Road Farm. From 1960-1964, he sat on the State Senate and was later appointed by his friend Governor Milliken to be on the Tax Appeal Board and the State Compensation Committee. Fred was a former District Governor for the Rotary Club, a life member of the Middleville Masonic Temple, a Shriner, a Volunteer Fireman, and sat on the Village Council. Fred was an adventurer and world traveler, having been to over 54 countries by his 50th anniversary to Laverna. He sought out knowledge in every form and followed current events. Fred was a devoted Detroit Tigers fan, beginning when all the legends of the game played. His greatest passion was fishing, especially on Gun Lake and he often carried around a boat on his truck. A time for relatives and friends to visit with Fred's family will be held 10-11 AM Thursday, July 17, at United Church of Wayland, 411 E. Superior St. Wayland MI 49348, where his funeral service will be held at 11 AM. A private interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery. In honor of Fred, contributions may be made to the Henika District Library, Wounded Warriors or the charity of your choice. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.kubiakcook.com. Visitation July 17, 2014 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM United Church of Wayland 411 E. Superior St. Wayland, MI Funeral Service July 17, 2014 11:00 AM United Church of Wayland 411 E. Superior St. Wayland, MI