Randolph J. Hils, 53, of DeFuniak Springs, FL, passed away unexpectedly in the home, Saturday, April 9, 2006. Hils was born in Pittsburgh, PA, January 9, 1953, the son of Ralph J. and Mary L. Hils.
Hils is survived by his beloved wife, Christine, and daughters, Molly and Emily of the home, and by Rebecca and Meghan of Tallahassee, FL. One of seven brothers, Hils’ remaining siblings are Gerald of Ashville, NC, Robert of San Antonio, TX, Dennis of Efland, NC, and Gregory of Rutherfordton, NC. He was preceded in his passing by his elder brothers, Ralph of Ellijay, GA and Jefferson Hils of Tallahassee.
Employed by Turner-Heritage Homes, Inc. for the past 17 years, Hils worked from both the Tallahassee and DeFuniak Springs offices.
As a Marine and Vietnam Veteran, Hils interest in the armed services led him to become an author, publishing articles on transport and glider units of WWII in general, and in particular, his fathers’ unit, the 440th Transport Group. His writing has appeared in numerous forms including in Airborne Quarterly and Armchair General. Hils also served as volunteer historian and event organizer for the veterans of the 440th.
Randolph J. Hils, was a man of boundless curiosity who enjoyed canoe building, rebuilding antique radios, refurbishing motorcycles and reading history. He also embraced the restorative powers of teaching, mentoring and forgiveness.
Arrangements are being handled by the family. Friends who wish to honor Hils may do so by making a gift of their chioce to Habitat for Humanity.
A remembrance will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 14, at Choctaw Beach near Niceville.
[Source: The DeFuniak Springs Herald, April 13, 2006, Page 8-B]
[Burial: Unknown]