Richard Hildebrand

Richard G. 'Chief' Hildebrand, 81, of Mansfield, died Monday afternoon, April 18, 2005, at MedCentral Mansfield Hospital after an extended illness. Born September 7, 1923, in Mansfield, he was the son of Lloyd and Ethel Sailer Hildebrand. He retired from the Mansfield Police Department after serving 30 years from 1947-1977, two years as Chief of Police from 1975-1977. Mr. Hildebrand was a member St. Paul's Lutheran Church, was a 32nd Degree Mason, member of Venus Lodge #152, F. & A.M., and was a lifetime member of Baku Grotto, American Legion Post #430, V.F.W. Post #3494, Ohio Retired Chiefs of Police and Fraternal Order of Police. He loved to cook, fish, and spend time with family and friends. A man of great integrity and strength, he was a veteran of both WWII and the Korean War serving with the U.S. Army.

He is survived by a son, Richard L. Hildebrand of Mansfield; daughter, Deborah Howard Carper of Lucas; granddaughter, Taylor Carper of Lucas; two sisters, Jean Hersh Miller of Ontario, Barb Wigton of Mansfield; brother, Raymond 'Bud' Hildebrand of Florida; his sidekick and constant companion, Sadie; special friend, Naomi Hildebrand of Mansfield; numerous nieces and nephews; and so many good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Anna Mae Stout and two brothers, William and Norman Hildebrand.

Friends may call at the Diamond Street home of Wappner Funeral Directors, Friday, April 22 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Masonic services at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home, officiated by Rev. Carl Cunfer. Military graveside services will follow in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association.