David Hillert

On Tuesday, May 11, 2021 David Bruce Hillert was called home at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with Lung Cancer.  Our family has lost an incredible husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend.

David was born on July 10th, 1956 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late Alfred and Shirley (Pettyplace) Hillert.  David's family later moved to Arlington Heights, Illinois where David grew up and eventually graduated from Arlington Heights High School in 1974.  Even though David grew up in the city, his passion was Hubbard Lake, where he spent many summers with his grandparents and family. Upon graduation from high school, David decided to follow his heart and made the move to Hubbard Lake.  David attended Alpena Community College to further pursue his passion of Automotive repair.  Upon completion of his degree David was employed by Alcona Motors in Lincoln, MI for several years, before becoming a mechanic at Northeastern Ford Lincoln Mercury in Alpena, MI.  Northeastern Ford Lincoln Mercury became pivotal in David's life.  It was there that he met his future wife, the former Debbie Kowalsky, whom he married on October 16th, 1982 and his business partner; the late Peter Pettalia.  Throughout his lifetime, David had a love for fixing automobiles.  In March of 1979, David along with Peter ventured out on their own, and opened the Downtown Union 76  Station on Chisholm Street in Alpena, MI.

Although raised in the city, he found solace in nature.  He loved hiking, waterskiing, fishing and just being outdoors.  David provided countless lifelong memories for his children, his grandchildren and those he called extended family.  No one was ever turned away.  If  you asked David about his greatest accomplishment, he would be quick to say it was being a father and a grandfather.  Family was his pride and joy. David felt blessed beyond all measures.

Left to carry on his legacy is his wife Debbie, his 3 daughters Jessica (Chase) Osbourne, Jennifer (Rik) Fox, and Michelle (TJ) Hoes.  His beloved grandchildren, Zoey Osbourne, Zane Osbourne, Rikki Fox, Clara Fox, and Nico Fox and a grand-daughter due in August, Parker Hoes.  Also surviving are his sister Judy (Vern) Scacci.

A  memorial visitation of David's life will be held on Saturday, May 22nd at the Depot on Fletcher Street from 2:00 p.m. until the Celebration of Life at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Brandon Maroney officiating.  Cremation arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends Together.  David has been a part of this wonderful group and found comfort among his many “new” friends.