Philip John Gerard Hilton, 1960-2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Philip John Gerard Hilton, age 65, who died peacefully on February 22, 2025, in Abbotsford, Wisconsin. Phil, as he was known to his loved ones, was the fifth child born to John and Lorens (Waters) Hilton of Marinette, Wisconsin.

Phil's life was marked by hard work and a deep love for his family and the outdoors. Following in his father's footsteps, he joined his brothers Jim and Pete at Hilton Trench Company in the mid-1970s, working there until the mid-1980s. After marrying Linda VanErt, he moved to the Wisconsin Rapids area to raise their family. Throughout his career, Phil displayed versatility and dedication, working as a heavy equipment operator and painter in the construction industry before finding his calling in the tree farm industry, where he worked until retirement.

Phil possessed a gentle soul with a particular fondness for animals. He was an avid outdoorsman who cherished ice fishing, camping, and spending quality time with family and friends. In his retirement, one of his greatest joys was creating special memories with his daughter Angela and grandson Aiden, often packing snacks for adventures to playgrounds and parks.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lorena Hilton, and his brother, Pete Hilton. He is survived by his daughter, Angela Hilton (Jason Burk) of Wisconsin Rapids; his son, Brandon (Kate) Hilton of Clinton, Iowa; and his beloved grandson, Aiden Burk. He also leaves behind his sisters, Julia May Hilton and Lorena May Nystrom, both of Marinette; his brother, James L. Hilton of Menominee, Michigan; and his half-brother, Dale Malke of Porterfield, Wisconsin.

A celebration of Phil's life will be held in June of this year. Details regarding the service will be announced at a later date. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences can be expressed at MWCS.WS.