MOHAWK- Mr. William "Bill" R. Hilts, 69, passed away on Thursday September 6, 2012 at his residence with his loving family at his side. He was born on December 6, 1942, in Ilion, son of the late Elwood and Ann (Wordynski) Hilts. Bill was educated in the East Frankfort and Mohawk Schools and later in the U.S. Air Force where he served his country. He was honorably discharged in 1968. Upon his return he worked as a talented plumber, construction worker and most recently at Herkimer County Community College. He loved the outdoors, including hunting and fishing with his special friends and family. Bill's talents were many, and he was always there for anyone who needed him. He was the best father, brother, husband and friend anyone could ask for. Survivors include his beloved wife of 42 years :Kathleen A. (Haggerty) Hilts, his sons Kirk and his wife Jamie of Ilion and Christopher Abeling and his wife Jacky Ryan Hilts of Mohawk; his very special grandchildren: Brett Hilts, Madeline Helmer, Hayden Hilts, Emalyn Hilts and Jeweliana Wilson; his brothers: Elwood Hilts and his wife Neva of North Carolina; Robert Hilts and his wife Juanita of Arkansas, John Hilts and his wife Robin of Burlington Flatts, Donald Hilts and his wife Michelle of Florida, Charles Hilts and his wife Anne of Richfield Springs and Richard Hilts and his wife Ruth of Bridgewaters; his sisters Marilyn Murphy of North Carolina, Bev Fike of Ilion, Carlotta Fuller and her husband Cap of East Herkimer, sister in law Sheila Haggerty; his brother in law Charles Guile and his wife Mary Jane of Ilion and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a special brother Ronald Hilts, his sister Shirley Gay, his brother in laws : Robert, Gerald and Edward Haggerty. Bill's family wishes to thank the many doctors and nurses who cared for him, Hospice, and family friend Dawn Brown for their love and support. There are no calling hours but family and friends are invited to celebrate Bill's Christian burial on Friday September 14, 2012 at 9am at Oak Hill Cemetery in Herkimer with Chaplin Jill Farnham officiating. Military honors will be presented by the U.S. Air Force. The family is being cared for by the Enea family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Rd., Ilion, John P. Lewandowski, Funeral Director. To offer an online message of sympathy please go to www.eneafamily.com