Thomas Stephen Hilvers

OTTOVILLE – Thomas Stephen Hilvers, 75, of Ottoville passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Monday, April 1, 2024.  He was born September 5, 1948 to the late Stephen and Veronica "Fronie" (Beining) Hilvers. On November 4,1972, he married the love of his life, Karen Kerner, who survives in Ottoville.

Tom lived a wonderful life and was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren.  He is survived by his 3 children:  Kurt (Christine) Hilvers of Fremont, IN, Matthew (Melissa) Hilvers, and Kelly (Patrick) Horstman, both of Ottoville; 7 grandchildren: Chloe and Jake Hilvers; Carson and Cade Hilvers; and Luke, Trent, and Blake Horstman.  He is also survived by his sister Ruth (Richard) Schroeder of Leipsic, his brother Dick (Jan) Hilvers of Ottoville, and sisters-in-law: Annette, Jean, and Alice Hilvers, all of Ottoville.  He was preceded in death by four brothers: John, Jim, Bob, and Donald Hilvers.

Tom was a graduate of Ottoville High School and the University of Toledo, and he served in the Army National Guard for six years.  He retired from General Motors where he was a Senior Manufacturing Engineer for 42 years.  He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.   Tom was actively involved in the lives of his kids and grandkids.  He stayed busy in retirement, attending their many events and sporting activities. Tommy enjoyed cars and boats, going on vacations, and spending time at the lake. He was a proud pontoon Captain, and Lake friends affectionately called him "The Godfather of the Lake".

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with the Very Reverend George Mahas officiating.  Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.  Visitation will be on Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m. at LOVE HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township, where a scripture service will be held at 1:45 p.m.

In lieu of gifts, the family asks that you consider giving the gift of life and donate blood and/or join the NMDP (Be the Match) Registry (ages 18-40).  Memorial contributions may be made to: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Putnam County Cancer Assistance Program, or the Immaculate Conception Parish Center Roof Project.

The family would also like to thank the amazing staff at Parkview, Fort Wayne; The James Cancer Hospital and the Marriott Residence Inn, Columbus; and Putnam County HomeCare and Hospice for their love, care, support, and prayers over the last 10 months.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
PO Box 98018, Washington DC 20090-8018
Tel: 1-888-557-7177
Web: http://www.lls.org

Putnam County CAP
PO Box 165, Glandorf OH 45848

Immaculate Conception Parish Center Roof Project
Ottoville OH 45876