Dennis William Hillary

November 25, 1947 – December 12, 2011.

Dennis William Hillary passed away peacefully at his home in Winter Garden, FL in the presence of his wife and three children. Dennis was born in Grand Rapids, MI and spent his childhood in Clermont, FL and Spring River Farm in Alto, MI. Dennis graduated from Clermont High School and Aquinas College.

Dennis met his wife, Gloria Sullivan, at Aquinas College. After marrying Gloria in 1977, Dennis joined his brother, Shaun, and their father, Joseph, in the family businesses now known as Hillary Peat Company and Marian Gardens Tree Farm. Dennis loved his work, and was especially proud of recently opening a new peat mining operation in Avon Park, FL. Dennis was known for his great sense of humor, which he kept until the end. Throughout his life Dennis loved to spend time at Spring River Farm and celebrate with family and friends.

Dennis was the youngest of three children born to Joseph and Marion Hillary. He was preceded in death by his sister, Holliday, and is survived by his brother, Shaun. Dennis will be forever remembered by his wife, Gloria, his children, Mark, Ryan, and Bridget, his daughters-in-law, Sunny and Holly, his grandchildren, Jack and Chloe, along with countless other friends and family members who loved him.

On Saturday, December 17, 2011, a 12:00 p.m. viewing and a 1:00 p.m. Mass will be held at St. Alphonsus Parish, 224 Carrier Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Following the Mass, Dennis will be laid to rest at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, 9692 92nd Street SE, Caledonia, MI 49302. A reception will be held at the Caledonia Sportsman’s Club, 10721 Coldwater Avenue SE, Alto, MI 49302. A memorial service will be held in Florida for friends and family who are unable to attend the Michigan services.

Condolences may be sent to St. Alphonsus Parish. Should family or friends desire, memorial contributions may be sent to the Hillary Family Scholarship, c/o Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506-1799. Arrangements under the direction of Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden, FL. 407-877-6700.