Donald Hillmer, 70

Donald Wencle Hillmer, 70, died n Christmas Day, December 25, 2012.

Donald was born June 15, 1942 in Alexandria, the son of Carl and Louise (Adensam) Hillmer. He was raised and schooled in Carlos. Donald graduated from Jefferson High School in Alexandria. He continued his education at the technical college in Staples, where he learned to be a machinist.

Donald worked as a machinist in the Twin Cities. Later he moved to Arizona where he worked for several years. In the late 1990s, he returned to the Alexandria area and worked for the recreation center as a janitor part time until he retired.

In Donald’s spare time he trained dogs in obedience and hunting skills. Donald also raised and bred dogs. He specialized in blue tick coonhounds and chocolate labs. His favorite dog was his chocolate lab named Rosie. Donald enjoyed dancing and taught country western dance. He participated in several dance clubs. Through these clubs he traveled the United States, performing exhibitions and participating in competitions.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Donald is survived by one son, Matthew Hillmer and wife, Maggie, of Chanhassen; two daughters, Amy Fink and husband, Robert, of Alexandria and Julie Watkins of Tennessee; five grandchildren, Grace Fink, Brenden Fink, Andrew Hillmer, Madeline Hillmer and Danielle Mae Ables; one brother, Dennis Hillmer and wife, Deb, of Carlos; and one sister, Pat Koep of Oakdale.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 5 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Church in Belle River. The Rev. Father Dave Petron will be the celebrant. Interment will follow at the church cemetery. Honorary pallbearers include all of Donald’s grandchildren.

Visitation is Friday, January 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home and also one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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