Funeral services for Richard B. Hilzer, age 71 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, who passed away on Saturday, October 22nd, at Regional West Medical Center, will be held October 27th, at 10 AM, at St. Agnes Parish with Father Dan Gilbert and Father Rayappa Konka officiating. A rosary will be held on Wednesday, October 26, at Dugan Kramer Funeral Home from 3 PM to 6 PM, with the rosary starting at 6 PM. Burial will be at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering, Nebraska. A memorial has been established to the DAV and the Nebraska Patriot Guard Riders. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.dugankramer.com.
Rick was born August 29th, at Saint Mary’s Hospital, to Peter B. Hilzer and Dorothy (Schaffer). He was raised by his aunt and uncle, Ben (Tiena) Lager. He received his early education in the Lake Alice Schools, graduating from Scottsbluff High School and later attending Western Nebraska Community College, graduating with an Associates in Business. He married his soulmate and the love of his life, Debra Flammang, on April 27th, 1974, at Christ the King Church and later resided in Scottsbluff. To this union, two daughters, Kimberlee and Amy, were born. Rick’s whole world revolved around his three girls: his greatest gifts. He worked at Star Herald, Panhandle Cartage, and Nebraska Transport Company. Rick served 22 years in the Nebraska Army National Guard attaining the rank of First Sergeant. He was a soldier his entire life and it was these skills that drove his love and dedication to his family, friends, and country. Rick was also a proud member of the AA program for 42 years.
Rick is survived by his wife, Deb; daughters, Kimberlee (Nathan) Reitz and Amy Hilzer; sisters, Pam (Stan) Schaneman and Joan Suhr; brother, Dick Lager; brother-in-law, Joe (Laceta) Flammang; grandchildren, Emalynn, Rose, and Bennett; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Peter B. Hilzer; mother, Dorothy Schaffer; aunt and uncle, Ben (Tiena) Lager; father/mother-in-law, Alfred (Edna) Flammang; sisters, Roxie Douglas and Pat Sauer; niece, Jennifer Schaneman; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.