Scott Hilmes

Scott “Scotty” Hilmes, of Willard Mo, passed away peacefully at his home, November 11, 2021, at the age of 68.

Scott Christopher Hilmes was born on New Year’s Eve, 1952, in Springfield Missouri, to Alban Joseph and Joan Ardyce (LaBonte) Hilmes. He attended St. Joseph Catholic School and graduated from Parkview High School in 1971. Scott and his wife Rebecca (Rogers) were joined in marriage on September 15, 1979 and have been together for over 42 years. Their relationship and home were the place to go for countless brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends. Always welcoming, always something going on.

He set out to hone his trades and chase a few entrepreneurial ideas, but soon joined his father at Southwestern Bell Telephone (now AT&T) as an outside repair technician and was the guy everyone could count on for 30 years. After retiring from AT&T, he took a parttime job in maintenance at Greene Hills Country Club, mowing, doing maintenance, and playing golf on his off time. Getting to ride on those big mowers and learning to maintain the greens were his favorite jobs. After Scott left GHCC, he became a volunteer firefighter with Ebenezer Fire and Rescue. That was one of the most exciting experiences he would enjoy before his health finally forced him to give it up. Driving those fire engines, he was like a kid in the candy store. Running hot with the lights and sirens.

Scott was kind, funny, always direct and calm in a crisis. People loved him for that. He was a gifted technician, problem solver and artisan. He could always be found in his shop making or restoring something amazing. Scott was an incredibly special creative person that touched many. To meet him you might not catch that; and that is exactly how he wanted it. He gave often of his time and talents, always resisting recognition.

Scott is preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his wife Becky, his brothers Steve (Thelma) of Gainesville Florida, Tom of Springfield, and Ted of Claremore Oklahoma. Also surviving are his sister-in-law Judy (Bill) O’Bannon of Buffalo Missouri, brothers-in-law, Tim (Gerri) Rogers of Springfield and John Rogers of Marshfield. Lastly, he leaves a multitude of nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

Funeral mass will be held Thursday, November 18, 2021, at 11:00 A.M. in St. Joseph Catholic Church 1115 N. Campbell Ave. Springfield, Missouri. Visitation will be prior to the memorial mass at 10:00 A.M. in the church.

In lieu of flowers, please make charitable donations to the St. Joseph Catholic Academy, 1115 N Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO 65802 or Safe to Sleep Women’s Shelter, 627 N Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO, or a charitable organization of your own.

We would like to recognize Shelly Ronayne, our nurse practitioner, for all that she did for Scott during his illnesses. Also, to Dr. Ellis and the wonderful staff at Oncology Hematology Associates. And lastly, to the amazing caregivers at Seasons Hospice for taking such great care of Scott in his final days. Having all of you in his corner made this so much easier, so we thank you.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home in Springfield, Mo.