US Navy and World War II veteran, Gerald Heston Hildebrand, passed away August 21, 2018, with family by his side at Bowers Hospice House, just six days shy of his 92nd birthday,

Born August 27, 1926 at Fairmont, WV, he was the son of the late Thomas Benton and Ardeth Heston Hildebrand.

When Gerald was 16, he joined the US Navy and proudly served for 2 1/2 years on the LST659 Landing Ship as as Machinst's Mate 3rd Class - operating engines. He was in both the European and Pacific Theaters.

After the Navy he returned home to Fairmont, marrying the late Margaret Irene Harden, who was the love of his life for 70 years. He was a self-made businessman, a beloved father, grandfather and friend to everyone who knew him. Gerald dedicated his life to his family and work.

In additon to his wife, sisters, Mary Francis and Lillian Kemper also preceded him in death.

Survivors include his oldest sister, Lula Falona of Miami, FL; three sons, Gerry (Margaret) Hildebrand, Terry (Karen) Hildebrand, all of Oak Hill, and Dr. Keith (Anne) Hildebrand of Morgantown; fifteen grandchildren, and twenty four great-grandchildren.

Services will be on Friday, August 24, 2018 at 1:00 PM at Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill, with Dr. Mike Whasman Sr. officiating. Entombment will be at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com