It is with great sadness that the family of Jim Hilbert announces his passing shortly after the diagnosis of lung cancer. He passed away Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015 at his home at the age of 73 years.

Jim was a long time resident and farmer of West Union, IL and he was a veteran of the US Army. He was born Oct. 24, 1942, the son of Vern and Nellie Mae Hilbert.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Sharon and their children, Bryan Hilbert and Brad (Regina) Hilbert; grandchildren, Kaysi (Matt) Ruffner, Madison Hilbert, Regan Hilbert and Bo Hilbert; a great grandson, Wyatt Ruffner and a brother, Joe Hilbert. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an aunt with whom he was very close, Helen Morgan.

Services in honor of his life will be 2:00 PM Sunday at Pearce Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Marshall Cemetery with military graveside rites. Visitation will be 11:00 AM until service time Sunday at the funeral home. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Heritage Veterans Health Care Home of Hutsonville, IL, Lincolnland Hospice or to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation with envelopes available at the funeral home. Online condolences are being accepted at pearcefuneralservices.com.