Edward C. Hilton

HILTON, Edward C.
Of Kalamazoo, Michigan Went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday evening, May 26, 2010, surrounded by his loving wife, devoted children, and cherished grandchildren. Ed was born in Kalamazoo, MI on June 4, 1936 to Ward and Nellie DeHaan Hilton, who preceded him in death. On July 18, 1958 he married the love of his life, Dorothy Medema Hilton, who survives. Ed was a proud and loving father to his children, Brenda Steven Hellenga of Kalamazoo, and Douglas Doreen Leep Hilton of Martin, MI who also survive. The joy and blessings of his life were his grandchildren; Nicole Kevin Cody, Katie Hellenga and Kendra, Travis, Richelle, and Carter Hilton. Ed was so proud to have had the privilege to serve his country as a Military Policeman in the United States Army. When he returned from overseas he continued to live a life of service to his God, his Family and his Church. Ed had a heart for people, especially kids of every age. He was involved in Youth for Christ, and he and Dort were Youth Sponsors for many years. Ed was a member of Hope Reformed Church for 50 years and served as Elder, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Choir Member. He also enjoyed participating as a member of The Singing Crusaders. Another passion for Ed was The Kalamazoo Christian Schools. He served as a JV football coach, Booster Club member and board member and dedicated volunteer of Second Impressions. Ed was employed as a journeyman plumber by Wheeler-Blaney for 22 years. He then went on to get his Master Plumbers license and started his own business, Hilton's Plumbing and Heating. Ed retired in 1999. He was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Charles Edward Hilton, and Marjorie Hilton, his extended family Mom and Dad Medema; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Herman and Mary Medema; brothers-in-law, Richard Swanson, Max Bassler, Jerry Mastenbrook; sister-in-law, Betty Medema. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Wilbur Medema, and his sisters-in-law, Jane John Rooseboom, Harriet Bassler, and Margaret Mastenbrook. He is survived by his brother's only daughter, Melinda Hilton. He was loved and cherished by many nieces, nephews, family members and friends. We will miss his big bear hugs, his loving smile and his gentle heart. A service to celebrate Ed's life will be held at 11:00 o'clock Tuesday at the Hope Reformed Church, 910 Jenks Blvd with Pastor Kent Frens officiating. Interment will follow in Grand Prairie Cemetery. Friends may meet the family Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8pm and Monday from 5-8pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Hope Reformed Church Memorial Fund, the Kalamazoo Christian Schools or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. www.langelands.com