Obituary of Gordon Hildreth

Gordon Kaye Hildreth was born in Highland Park, Michigan on July 28, 1928. He was one of two children born from the union of the late Peter Hildreth and the late Bernice (Hamilton) Hildreth. After high school graduation, Gordon enlisted and served as a Private First Class for the United States Air Force from September 1, 1951 until his honorable discharge on June 24, 1954. Gordon was employed in several different capacities throughout his life. He worked as a milkman and spent more than seventeen years as Head of Security for the Flat Rock Mazda Plant. But more than anything, Gordon, was an entrepreneur. He loved being self-employed and didn't shy away from the added responsibilities. He owned a Bar and Grill on the Eastside of Detroit for several years, and worked as a real estate agent in his own company as well. Gordon wasn't shy in the fact that the thing he enjoyed most in life was making money. It was also well-known among those who knew him best that he really actually enjoyed spending it. Gordon was a giving man, and he loved being generous with his spouse and step children. Outside of work, he was involved with several different organizations within the community including: the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Warren, Michigan, American Legion in East Detroit, and the Flat Rock Elks. Gordon had spent some time living in the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan prior to moving to Carleton in 1992 where he resided with his significant other: Marilyn Driggett. Gordon Kaye Hildreth age 82 of Carleton passed away at 8:00am, Monday, April 18, 2011 at Fountainview of Monroe under the care of Erie-West Hospice. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a sister: Elizabeth. He leaves to cherish his memory a son: Billy and a daughter: Dawna. Friends may gather at 11:00am, Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at the Carleton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4093, 700 Carleton-Rockwood Road for a Celebration of His Life. The Rev. David Schmidt pastor of St. John Lutheran Church will officiate. A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm, Thursday, April 28, 2011 at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 has been entrusted with his arrangements.