Elmer (Bob) Leon Hileman
Elmer Leon Hileman, known to all as Bob, was a beacon of kindness and simplicity in a world too often complex and indifferent. Born on December 15, 1939, in Wise, Virginia, he grew up to embody the virtues of humility and generosity that would come to define his character. After a life well-lived, Bob passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, in Port Charlotte, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of love and gentle strength.
Bob was the cherished son of the late Robert and Cora Lee Hileman, whose deep-rooted values and loving upbringing left an indelible mark on his life. His tender spirit will be forever missed by his devoted daughter, Dawn Hileman, and his son, Rafael Boluda, who both saw him as a guiding light and a source of unwavering support.
Throughout his career as a skilled stone mason and bricklayer, Bob’s hands shaped more than just the physical world around him; they built a foundation of hard work and integrity that inspired all who knew him. His craftsmanship was not just a job but a testament to his patience and attention to detail. He was also an active member of his professional community, where his reliability and camaraderie were as strong as the structures he helped construct.
Bob’s passions extended beyond his vocation. He lived a life that epitomized the beauty of simplicity. A country man at heart, Bob never met a stranger. His open and welcoming nature meant that friendships were easily formed and deeply cherished. His desire to spread joy was evident in his love for fishing and hunting, where he found peace in the serenity of nature. The golf cart life suited him perfectly, allowing him to enjoy his days under the sun, connecting with neighbors and friends in the gentle pace that he favored.
One of Bob’s most admirable qualities was his selflessness. He was a loving and gentle soul who put others before himself, always ready to lend a hand or share a kind word. This selflessness was a quiet but powerful force that left a profound impact on those fortunate enough to cross his path.
The staff at Tidewell Hospice, particularly John, Bonnie, and Meghan, deserve heartfelt thanks for the compassion and care they provided Bob in his final days. Their dedication ensured that his journey was filled with dignity and love, reflecting the very essence of how he lived his life.
Bob’s departure from this world is not a mere goodbye but a transition to a place where his spirit can soar without bounds. His daughter, Dawn, expresses the profound sorrow and boundless love she holds for her father, stating, “Dad, you are in my thoughts and prayers every single day. I cannot put into words how much I will miss you, but I know that you are going to a place much better than here, where you will be treated like the angel that you are.”
As we remember Bob, let us take comfort in the words of St. Pope John Paul II: “Allow the light and the healing presence of Christ to shine brightly through your lives. In that way, all those who come in contact with you will discover the loving kindness of God.” Bob Hileman lived by these words, his life a testament to their truth.
Today and forever, Bob flies free, his legacy a tapestry woven from threads of love, selflessness, and gentleness. He will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit continues to guide and inspire us. Let us honor his memory by living with the same compassion and humility that he so effortlessly embodied.
