John Edward Hilgar, 60, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, formerly of Bloomsburg, PA and Whitehouse Station, NJ, passed away on March 5th after a long courageous battle with cancer. His loving wife of 18 years, Therese Bush Hilgar, was by his side.
John was born in Bloomsburg to Norman and Katherine HIlgar. He graduated from Bloomsburg High School and was a member of St. Columba’s Roman Catholic parish. John’s career started in food service, later transitioning to transportation management.
John will be remembered and celebrated as an unabashed joyful warrior. His smile erupted easily and was remarkable. He made a packed house at Madison Square Gardens smile when he proposed to Therese on the Jumbotron – on their first date!
John never shied from adversity, nor did he let it compromise his commitment to others. He was always the first to lend a hand to any family member or friend. He selflessly cared for his ‘other mother’, Tess Bush, by welcoming her to live in his home. John cherished his special place in family gatherings. He knew how to have fun whether it was judging his annual chili cook-off, wearing his crazy holiday get-ups, or competing in legendary board game sessions. Johnny also enjoyed playing golf, listening to classic rock and roll, and completing daily crossword puzzles.
In addition to his wife, Therese, John leaves behind 5 siblings – Joe, Paul, Peggy Scholl, Kate and Nancy Porter and their spouses; nieces Sarah Osterbur, Rachael Lyall, Becky Hilgar, Ida and Asta Bush; nephew, Zach Scholl: great nephews Carter and Blake Lyall, Brooks Scholl, and great nieces Lucy Scholl and Helena Osterbur.
We’ll all celebrate John’s life when it’s safe to gather. Contributions in John’s memory may be made to the Bloomsburg University Foundation (BUF), directed to the Norman Hilgar Scholarship Fund at 50 East Main St. 4th Floor, Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1301 (570) 389-4128 | info@bloomufdn.org
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Katie
March 8, 2021, 7:20 pm
😘
Jana Hamrick and Dave Babb
March 10, 2021, 12:50 pm
I miss you already my dear, dear friend. Peace out, Hilly.
Barbara Neyhard Tyson
March 10, 2021, 7:19 pm
Although I have not be involved with John later in life, I had the honor to secure a ‘great friend’ early in life. We met at St. Columba school & our adventures started. He was a year ahead of me & wiser & joined in much foolishness together. High School & parties at Stouty’s land were the best with John’s crazy, fun, laughter. He was a great guy & everyone’s best friend. He was smart & serious but when he ‘turned up’ a lot of memories were made. You were loved & enjoyed by everyone❤️
Carrie Dunmire McMullen
March 11, 2021, 12:05 am
I am so, so, so sincerely to hear about John’s passing. John’s parents and my parents were good friends and we spent some fun times together in our younger years when we would visit the Hilgar family in Bloomsburg and they would visit us in Grove City.
My heart and thoughts go out to John’s Wife and family.
Sincerely,
Carrie Dunmire McMullen
Carrie (Dunmire) McMullen
March 11, 2021, 2:28 pm
John’s parents and my parents were wonderful friends and we spent plenty of time together over the years. I remember with love and fondness traveling to Bloomsburg to hang out with the Hilgar family and have some serious fun. It was a wonderful time. The Hilgar family also made plenty of trips to Grove City, PA as well.
I am so, so sorry to hear about John’s passing. I will treasure the times we had and the fun we had as kids.
Sympathy and love to his family.
Carrie (Dunmire) McMullen
VICKI REEVES
March 18, 2021, 4:30 pm
Therese my prayers are with you right now.
Johnny was a very good friend to not only me but to Harry also. Harry and him had been friends forever and after Harry passed away I knew I could depend on Johnny. He was always there when I needed him even though he was going thru health issues himself. I wished I had been able to see him again before he passed but I didn’t and for that I am so sorry. Now I do know that him and Harry are up in heaven playing golf, just watch Harry’s swing Johnny. I love you and will miss you very much.
God Bless
Vicki
CHARLES H QUEARY
September 24, 2021, 5:27 am
To John’s wife, Therese, and his family, please accept my condolences for your loss.
I worked with John on several occasions at Russell’s Restaurant in Bloomsburg, almost thirty years ago now. He was remarkable, a giving person, insightful, kind, and so fun to be with. I have many fond memories. I am glad to have known him.
Wishing his family the very best,
Charles Queary
Jeffrey B Lauffer
March 14, 2024, 10:14 pm
To John. One of my greatest regrets in life is that we were never able to see each other again. All grown up. And perhaps listen to Bread or the Beatles. You were/are an incredible person. I heard my brother connected with you. You asked about me and I am sure he did not reveal to you the incredulous turn life took for me. But, perhaps we will meet again. God bless you and those who you blessed with your presence.
Dr. Jeffrey Lauffer. D.C.