David E. Hilty, 81, of Spring Grove passed away peacefully at Hanover Hospital on Thursday, May 1st, 2025.  He was the beloved husband of Freda E. (Trimmer) Hilty.

Born September 3, 1943 in Brodbecks, he was a son of the late Clarence and Esther (Weaver) Hilty.

Mr. Hilty is fondly remembered, above all else, as a dedicated family man.  He was also a friend to everyone he met and never let anyone remain a stranger.  With his outgoing personality and witty sense of humor, he will be greatly missed and his memory cherished by all whose lives he touched.  Family and friends will smile at the memories of David's John Deere Tractor collection and how he shared that passion by leading hayrides for the community.  He also could often be seen riding his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle and on special occasions, driving his beautiful 1968 Cadillac DeVille.  He was truly the "life of the party" and loved hosting gatherings and reunions.

In addition to his wife, David is survived by six children: David E. Hilty II and his wife Sara of Spring Grove, Joan E. Ort and her husband Brian of Spring Grove, Amy L. Still and her husband David of Abbottstown, Gail E. Hilty of Parkersburg, Iowa, Karen F. Ball of Glen Rock and Randy A. Bange and his wife Kristina of Spring Grove; five siblings, 18 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, as well as his granddaughter, Kate Warner.

A funeral service to celebrate David's life will be held at 11am on Wednesday, May 7th at Wetzel Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc; 549 Carlisle St. in Hanover with Pastor Mark Rohnke officiating.  Interment will follow in York Road Cemetery in Hanover. The family will receive guests and there will be an opportunity to view at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 6th from 4-8 pm, and again on Wednesday morning from 10am until the start of the service.

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