Donald Hilgeman

Donald Hilgeman, 90, died on May 14th, 2020 surrounded by family at his home in Valley Farms. Mr. Hilgeman was born on June 23, 1929 in Terre Haute, IN. Don’s father owned and operated a vehicle repair shop, which inspired his passion for cars. He was known to race in his 1940 Ford Business Coupe with a Flathead V8 called the Copper Penny. In 1951, he married Maurine Sullivan, the love of his life. The couple moved to Valley Farms in 1969 with their three children.
Mr. Hilgeman was most distinguishingly stationed in the Weather/Space Division of the Air Force at Aleutian Islands, AK, during the Korean War. Later in his career he supervised the construction and implementation of concrete block plants in Africa, Mexico, and the U.S. He later owned and operated Western Auto in Coolidge (a local supply store). Prior to retirement he managed an area agricultural spray equipment business.
Don was a devoted member of the local American Legion and Elks Lodge 2350 throughout his life. After retirement he and Maurine enjoyed traveling and spending summers in their RV near Silver City, NM.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, twin sisters, his son, David Hilgeman and countless friends and relatives. He is survived by his wife, Maurine; daughters, Donata (Ben) Montgomery, Denise (Rick) Baker; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. There will be a private celebration of life for family and friends at a later date.
J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud are handling arrangements.