Robert “Bob Hildy” Eugene Hildebrand, 93, of Whitestown, passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2020.Bob was born on the west side of Indianapolis on May 26, 1927, a son of the late William Everette and Anna (Cragun) Hildebrand. He graduated from Washington High School in 1945, and then played baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates. After his time in professional baseball, Bob joined the United States Marine Corps where he attained the rank of Sergeant. He was employed by Citizens Gas for 40 years after his time in service, retiring in 1984. As an employee, he was in charge of employee welfare and recreation. He also served as manager of Citizens Gas Credit Union.As a resident of Pike Township, he served the community in many ways. He oversaw the Pike Township Youth Leagues, including baseball, softball and football, for both boys’ and girls’ leagues. He served on the Pike Township School Board for two terms and managed many committees. He was there for the kids, and made sure there were opportunities for them to play sports.Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Betty Hildebrand; son: Robert Dean Hildebrand, step-son: David Busch, step-daughter: Janet Fekkes, grandchildren: Daniel Busch, Toby (Derek) Pearson, Josie Walker Mark (Patty) Hildebrand, Luke Hildebrand, Leah (Jason) Noel, Holly (Shane) Heidt, Craig Sampsel and Jeff Sampsel; great grandchrildren: Natalie Pearson, Caroline Hildebrand, Gabriel Hildebrand, Natalie Noel, Braeden Noel, Adelaide Noel, Hudson Heidt and Hayden Heidt. He was preceded in death by his parents, and daughter: Diane Hildebrand. Bob’s original family included brother: Lowell Hildebrand and sisters: Juanita Schimmel and Glenda Louise Davis.A private burial has been scheduled for a later date, followed by a Celebration of Bob’s Life. Simplicity Funeral and Cremation Care has been entrusted with arrangements.
