Robert Hildebrand

Robert (Bob) Hildebrand, age 93, passed away May 4, 2024 in his home in Glen Ellyn, IL.

Bob was born August 12,1930 in Emden, Illinois where he grew up. His successful high school basketball career led to his induction into the Illinois High School Basketball Hall of Fame. After high school he attended Illinois Wesleyan University where he continued his basketball success under coach Jack Horenberger. After Bob graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University and after a brief time with the Denver Bankers basketball team, Bob was recruited by General Electric to its three-year advanced management development program which took him to various locations throughout the United States including Boston, MA, Fort Wayne, IN, Bloomington, IL, and Decatur, IL. In 1964 he relocated to Chicago and settled in Glen Ellyn, IL. Bob finished his career as an officer at RR Donnelley where he contributed to its plant expansion both in America and internationally, solidified its union-free status, and helped select the employees for its facilities. After retirement Bob contributed to RR Donnelley as a part time specialist until 2000. Bob was raised with Christian values which guided him to have a positive work ethic and integrity in the workplace.

Bob married his high school sweetheart Ann Ash and they raised two children. He was an avid fan of Big Ten athletics, particularly Illinois and Northwestern. His passion for sports continued throughout his life and he could often be seen running around the track at Glenbard West into his 70’s. Less than one month after celebrating his 49th birthday, Bob’s first grandchild was born. Bob felt too young to be called “Grandpa,” and so his grandchildren started calling him “Bob” and it stuck. Bob was almost always present as Bob and Ann hosted holiday events with family and made sure everyone had new socks at Christmas. His signature, flowing white hair could often be seen pacing behind dugouts and around bleachers during his grandchildren’s sporting events.

Bob was proceeded in death by his wife of 70 years, Ann Ash Hildebrand of Atlanta, IL, his daughter Rebecca (Richard) Vincens and his brother Don Hildebrand. He is survived by his brother, Larry (Doreda) Hildebrand, his son Robert (Cindy) Hildebrand, his grandchildren Adam (Maggie) Vincens, Jason Vincens, Christian (Kristin) Hildebrand, Kelly (Billy) Collins and nine great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at Leonard Memorial Funeral Home in Glen Ellyn on Friday, May 17th from 3:00-7:00 pm. A graveside service will be held in Atlanta, Illinois on Saturday, May 18th at 11:00 am.

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