Obituary of Willi Hilgendag

Hilgendag, Willi Friedrich Heinrich Konrad – Sept 17, 1925 – June 18, 2016 - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a very special farmer, Willi Hilgendag, in his 91st year. Cherished husband of Rosemarie (nee Ahrens) for 62 years. Loving father of Jutta (predeceased June 18, 2015)(Ruediger Steinberg), Renate (Jochen Bosse), Wilhelm (Petra), Helga (Hartmut Mackensen), Elke (Gerry Klunder). Proud Opa to 17 grandchildren and Urgross-Opa to ten great-grandchildren. In 1978, he immigrated to Canada and left behind a successful dairy and cash crop operation in Germany. He knew he had found his paradise when he stood overlooking Bow Park Farm for the first time. Every spring, Willi’s goal was to plant the crops as early as the sandy Oxbow soil would allow. He took great pride in his crops. He was a world champion grain producer and was acknowledged yearly at local fairs, including the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Willi’s highlight was raising his Limousin cattle. He found great enjoyment and peace watching his cows in the pasture. We will never forget his incredible work ethic and great determination to continue to do what he loved to do. Willi was very fortunate in that his passion for farming will now be carried on with the next generation. “Ich werde die wiedersehen, die ich auf Erden geliebt habe, und jene erwarten, die mich lieben.” The family would like to thank the wonderful team at BCHS for all of their care and support, as well as, the CCAC/Palliative Outreach Team. We were happy Willi could spend his final days on the farm. A Private family service was held at the farm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the BCHS Foundation or St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hamilton. Arrangements were entrusted to the BECKETT-GLAVES FAMILY FUNERAL CENTRE, 88 Brant Avenue. Donations and condolences are available online at www.beckettglaves.com. A tree will be planted in memory of Willi in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.