William “Bill” Hilleman
Dr. William Louis Hilleman, age 83, of Richland Center, WI, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, surrounded by love.
Born on January 3, 1942, in Marshalltown, Iowa, Bill was the cherished son of LeRoy and Rocelia (Doser) Hilleman. From an early age, he was drawn to animals and farming, a passion that would shape his life’s work and bring him deep joy.
After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1966, Bill served as a Captain in the U.S. Army stationed at the DMZ in Korea, and then Fort Leavenworth Military Prison Farm until 1968. That same year, on April 27, he married Judith Harris. After Bill accepted an offer to join Shireman Veterinary Clinic they settled in Richland Center. There he found himself not only a career, but lifelong friendships. For over four decades, he dedicated himself to the care of animals and the farmers who depended on them, retiring in 2010.
Bill was never one to sit still for long. Even in retirement, his love for cattle and farming kept him active. He became a certified ultrasound technician and continued to share his knowledge and expertise with the community. His leadership and service extended far beyond his practice. Bill served as President of the Wisconsin Veterinary Association, the Southwest Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, and the Richland County Beef Producers. He was a valued member of the Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association and many other agricultural and veterinary organizations. But titles aside, Bill was most at home walking through the 4-H barns at the County or State Fair, proudly talking with fellow cattlemen and sharing his love of cattle and farming with his family.
To those who knew him, Bill was a steady presence—humorous, wise, and ready to help eat any extra pies or cookies that needed testing.
He had a deep love for his family, his community, and the land he worked. His legacy will live on in the generations he taught, the animals he cared for, and the family he loved so dearly.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Judith; six children, Jill (Michael) Triphan, Susan Hilleman, Steven Hilleman, Marianne Hilleman, Theresa (Edward) Marshall, and Deanna (Todd) Huberty; grandchildren, Ty Struble (and friend Molly), Patrick Hilleman, Venus Hilleman, Will Marshall, Catie Marshall, Greta Huberty, Taylor (Trevor), Andrea (Dominick), Caleb (Megan); seven great-grandchildren; his sister Jane (Allen) Havard; and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marianne Adamson-Smith; brother in-laws Eldred “Buck” Adamson, and Rocky Smith; his son, Patrick Hilleman; and his grandson, Elliott Huberty.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 11:30 A.M. at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish with burial in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery where military graveside rites will be conducted by the Local Veterans Military Memorial Honors Unit. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at the Stafford Funeral Home from 4:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. with a rosary to be prayed at 3:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held on Friday at the church from 10:30 A.M. until the time of Mass at 11:30 A.M.
Special thank you to Our House Memory Care staff and Moments Hospice for taking care of Dad.
Online condolences available at www.staffordfuneralhomes.com. The Stafford Funeral Home in Richland Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.