C. Frederick Hildebrand, beloved father, husband, neighbor, and friend passed away at age 90 while comforted by family at his White Twp. home on December 19, 2019. Born on February 2, 1929 in Indiana, PA, he was the only child of Charles and Florence Fleming Hildebrand.
Fred graduated from Indiana High School in 1946 before serving in the 28th Division, Company F, PA Army National Guard in Germany during the Korean War. Upon his return, he worked for 37 years as a letter carrier at the Indiana Post Office, much of that time on walking routes in town. A quintessential small-town mail carrier, he relished in the contact with his route patrons and friendships with cohorts. It was not uncommon for patrons to fondly recognize him decades later, well into his retirement.
He was a life member of the Calvary Presbyterian Church and Veterans of Foreign Wars, both in Indiana.
Fred was an avid sportsman and consummate host at his beloved “Blue Spruce Lodge” in the Allegheny National Forest, welcoming friends and strangers alike. He thoroughly enjoyed his family time, hunting, and fishing camps there. Few conversations with him could be recalled in which “camp” was not brought up and an invite extended. His hospitality guaranteed a memorable time and Grandpa or “Pap’s” absence will be sorely noted by friends and family in the Northwoods.
Fred enjoyed being a grandfather and great-grandfather and was a routine spectator at ball games and band events. In his later years, he could be found many mornings visiting his son and grandsons at their family business.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his eldest son David Hildebrand. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Louise (Woodring), son – Steven Hildebrand and daughter-in-law Cindy (Simon) of Bluff City, TN; daughters – Jan Erickson and fiance’ Ron Lengel; Lynn Brose and son-in-law Doug Brose of Narvon, PA; son – Charles “Chip” Hildebrand and daughter-in-law Cathy (Golden), of Clymer, PA; eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.
Friends will be received on Friday, January 3, 2020, at the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Indiana from 10 to 11 a.m., where a funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David Hannah officiating. Interment will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery, Indiana.
Our family would like to thank friends, Fred and Louise’s Forest Manor neighbors, and Hospice 365 for their support and assistance.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice 365, 119 S. Main St., Carroltown, PA 15722; or the Calvary Presbyterian Church, 695 School St., Indiana, PA 15701
