Obituary of MSG Hal Franklin Hilton, U.S. Army

Hal Frank Hilton, age 84, passed peacefully at home on March 8, 2022. He was born to the late Mary F. McKinney and Hal Horace Hilton on August 28, 1937, in Versailles, Kentucky. He is survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Ruth (Medina); his daughters, Laurie (Martin) Tann, Susan (Kyle) Wheelan; and his son, Jeff; his seven grandchildren, Rachael (Will), Michael, Imani (Greg), Nia, Shayla, Reece and Kaitlin; sister, Goldie Dougherty; and brother, Warren Hilton.Hal enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 21 in 1958, serving as an ammunition foreman and senior supply supervisor. His family accompanied him on tours overseas in Germany, Guam, and Hawaii. Hal served in Vietnam and earned the Bronze Star Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars; Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm and numerous other commendations. After twenty years of active military service, he retired as a Master Sergeant. He then retired from federal civil service, working for Fort Carson's Directorate of Environmental Compliance and Management. Hal served his country with honor, dedication, and great pride.Hal loved classic country music and old-time rock'n'roll, watching old western movies and watching any sporting event, especially football. He was a fierce competitor in his younger years, excelling at basketball and baseball. He loved fishing and camping with his family and friends. He adored his grandchildren and his many German Shepherds. He was able to fix anything from appliances to cars. As a hobby, he bought and restored classic cars, especially Ford Mustangs. He was meticulously organized with all his hobbies and collections. He leaves behind many cherished and happy memories and a "hole in the hearts" of those closest to him. We can rest assured Hal is at peace as he recently said to family and friends, "If the Good Lord decides to take me, I've lived a good life." Hal will be honored through a Funeral Service, 11:00AM, Thursday, March 24, 2022, Calvary Worship Center, 501 Castle Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904.This will be followed by an outdoor military ceremony and interment, 2:00PM, Thursday, March 24, 2022, Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80925. True to Hal's love of people and good food there will be a Celebration of Life dinner at 3:00PM for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Hal Frank Hilton to the Warrior Dog Foundation, https://warriordogfoundation.org.