Robert "Bob" Hillen

Alton:

Robert “Bob” Hillen, 73, passed away at 6:51pm on Sunday, November 8, 2026, in the emergency room at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital. He was born in St. Louis, the son of the late Herman B. Hillen and Eulalia M. Raum. He married the former Marilyn Thompson on October 9, 2009, in Alton, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and daughter in law: Christopher “Chris” and Nicole Hillen of Westphalia, Missouri, a granddaughter: Adelaide Hillen, his step children: Eric Watt of Hartford, Cassandra and Eric Snively of Wood River, Jacob Watt of Rosewood Heights, Tyler and Lauren Watt of Godfrey, his step grandchildren: Kailey, Emma, Hunter, Josslyn, Robert, Amelia, three sisters and a brother in law: Dee and Jim Richardson of St. Louis, Sharon Freeman of St. Louis, Mary Lou Bowers, two brothers and a sister in law: Larry and Kris Hillen of St. Louis, Tom Hillen of St. Louis, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Bob was employed for over fifteen years as a lab technician at Belleville Memorial Hospital and Alton Memorial Hospital. He proudly served his country for a combined 22 years between active duty Navy and the Navy Reserves. He continued that spirit of service as a member of the Patriot Guard, honoring and standing beside fellow veterans. He had a deep love for motorcycles and the freedom of the open road. Just as much as companionship of dogs, who always held a special place in his heart. He was never one to sit still for long, always finding another building project, repair, or something that needed fixing. He also took great pride in his commitment to Gamblers Anonymous, where he worked hard at his recovery and remained serious about the journey, showing determination, honesty, and strength. He lived life on his own terms, with a hands-on spirit, a love for those around him, and a determination to keep moving forward. He will be remembered for his service, his passions, his hard work, and the unique mark he left on the lives of those who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Richard.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. The funeral procession will leave Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River at 10:45am on Monday, November 16, 2026, escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders for an 11am graveside at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto. Military rites will be performed by the Ritual Team of VFW Post 1308 of Alton.

Memorials are suggested to the Patriot Guard Riders and will be accepted at the funeral home.