Eugene L. Hilliker
Eugene “Gene” L. Hilliker was born on Jan. 4, 1935, to Norman and Caroline (Ebling), and passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, at Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation. He is now reunited with his parents, sister Patricia Hovis, and his grand kitties, Lonesome, Kitty, Christmas and Sassy.
Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Rose Marie (Yacklon), his daughters, Brenda M. Myers and Janet L. Hilliker and her fiance, Mark Ardillo, and his grand kitties, Max and Marley Mittens.
Gene was a graduate of Silver Creek Schools, and went on to get his degree in accounting from Bryant and Stratton. He served in the Army National Guard from 1957 to 1960. Gene retired from Niagara Mohawk’s Dunkirk Steam Station, and went on to work part-time as a CARTS bus driver, then a greeter at Walmart. Gene never wanted for anything, and just wanted to take care of and provide for his family. He was a simple man whose smile lit up the room, and who will be forever missed by his family and friends.
Gene was known as an excellent bowler in the area, and rolled a “300” in 1963. He loved to play cards and do crossword puzzles, read the daily newspapers, watch TV, and he adored his grand kitties. Before he got sick, he made daily trips to Tim Horton’s and Burger King. He loved pizza, but his favorite meal was a cheeseburger and fries.
The family wants to thank everyone at Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation for taking such good care of “Papa” while he was a resident. The family would also like to thank Chautauqua County Hospice and Rehabilitation for their care and comfort.
The family will hold services privately. Gene loved animals, especially kitties, so please feel free to make a donation to a rescue of your choice in his name. Donations to Hospice are also appreciated. Arrangements by McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.