Ernest M. “Ernie” Hilbert

Racine – Ernest M. “Ernie” Hilbert, 65, passed away suddenly at All Saints Hospital on Thursday, December 24, 2009. He was born in Green Bay on June 14, 1944, son of the late Anton and Marie (nee: Fruechtl) Hilbert. Ernie proudly served in the US Air Force as a Cryptology Technician. On September 27, 1969, he was married to Barbara Jean Nightingale at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Aurora, Illinois. Ernie owned and operated “Sound Decisions” in Racine, and was previously employed by Honeywell in Brookfield, Illinois. Ernie’s natural curiosity about life and people fueled his passion for collecting antiques, and his enthusiastic pursuit of knowledge and research. He was well read and could carry a conversation on any number of subjects. Possessing a strong will and caring spirit, Ernie always sought to help others. Whether as a husband, father, grandfather, or friend, he put others before himself, and was always there with a helping hand, sage advice, and a loving heart. His influence on the lives of others was felt far and wide. He will be missed, but will always be in our hearts. Ernie is survived by his wife, Barbara Hilbert of Raymond; and their children, Christian Hilbert, Andrew Hilbert, of Racine, Matthew Hilbert of Raymond, Sarah (Eric Rehl) Hilbert of South Milwaukee, and Nicholas Hilbert of Racine; grandchildren, Tyler, Brianna, Theron, and Thor; brothers, Benjamin Hilbert of St. Louis, Missouri, Michael (Marie) Hilbert of Green Bay; and Daniel Hilbert in Colorado; sister, Mary (Ervin) Penkalski of Milwaukee; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Anthony Hilbert. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. All are invited to visit with the family from 4:00 – 6:45. Interment at McPherson Cemetery in Raymond will be private.