HILLARY – Dennis William Hillary passed away peacefully at his home in Winter Garden FL in the presence of his wife and three children. Dennis was born in Grand Rapids MI and spent his childhood in Clermont FL and Spring River Farm in Alto MI. Dennis graduated from Clermont High School and Aquinas College. Dennis met his wife Gloria Sullivan at Aquinas College. After marrying Gloria in 1977 Dennis joined his brother Shaun and their father Joseph in the family businesses now known as Hillary Peat Company and Marian Gardens Tree Farm. Dennis loved his work and was especially proud of recently opening a new peat mining operation in Avon Park FL. Dennis was known for his great sense of humor which he kept until the end. Throughout his life Dennis loved to spend time at Spring River Farm and celebrate with family and friends. Dennis was the youngest of three children born to Joseph and Marion Hillary. He was preceded in death by his sister Holliday and is survived by his brother Shaun. Dennis will be forever remembered by his wife Gloria his children Mark Ryan and Bridget his daughters-in-law Sunny and Holly his grandchildren Jack and Chloe along with countless other friends and family members who loved him. On December 17 2011 a 12:00 p.m. viewing and a 1:00 p.m. Mass will be held at St. Alphonsus Parish 224 Carrier Street NE Grand Rapids MI 49505. Rev. Patrick Grile CSsR presiding. Following the Mass Dennis will be laid to rest at St. Patricks Catholic Cemetery 9692 92nd Street SE Caledonia MI 49302. A reception will be held at the Caledonia Sportsmans Club 10721 Coldwater Avenue SE Alto MI 49302. A memorial service will be held in Florida for friends and family who are unable to attend the Michigan services. Condolences may be sent to St. Alphonsus Parish. Should family or friends desire memorial contributions may be sent to the Hillary Family Scholarship c/o Aquinas College 1607 Robinson Road SE Grand Rapids MI 49506-1799.
