Martin Hilger

Martin James Hilger, age 88, of Grand Rapids passed away on Monday, February 3, 2020.  Marty was pre-deceased by his wife Rose and is survived by brothers Willard Hilger (Vicky), Lester Hilger & Donald Wright (Sherry); brothers-in-law Thomas Kehoe and William Aldrich; and many nieces and nephews; close friends Patricia Andres & Doug Bredberg and their sons Philip  (Lauren) Bredberg and Mitchell (Megan Keller). Bredberg. Born in Chicago, IL on September 2, 1931 to mother Rose Hilger (Nincheski) and Martin Hilger, Marty was raised in Flint, MI. He graduated from St. Michael’s Catholic High School and immediately joined the United States Navy from 1949 to 1961.  Marty sailed the Atlantic Ocean from Iceland to Brazil and throughout Europe.  He reached the rank of Chief Petty Officer E7 and was stationed in Grand Rapids, MI, where he met his wife of 51 years, Rose Marie (Aldrich).  Marty was stationed in New York City, NY and Norfolk, VA where he & Rose enjoyed living for many years.  Following his military retirement, Marty lived in Grandville, MI, where he joined the United Stated Postal Service in Grand Rapids and retired after 20 years.  He was a member of St Pius X Catholic Church, Grandville, MI for over 40 years.  A Rosary will be held on Thursday, February 13 at 7PM at O’Brien Eggebeen Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, February 14 at 11AM at St Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, 49418, Rev Chris Rouech presiding.  Interment at Oakwood Cemetery in Lowell.  Visitation one hour prior to the Mass.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church at the aforementioned address.