David L. Hill Jr., RET. SFC, Garnett, 86, who was a great patriot and lover of his country, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2015, at Golden Heights, Garnett.
David was born Nov. 8, 1928, at Flint, Mich., the son of David L. and Lillie Ozell (Massey) Hill. He grew up in Kennett, Mo., later moving to Kansas City where he worked for Armour meat packing. David married Emma Earlene Krantz. Two sons were born to this union, David Earl and John F. They later divorced.
In 1954, David entered the U.S. Army. He initially served in Korea and Okinawa, Japan, during the occupation period following the Korean War. After returning to the United States, David was stationed at Fort Huachuca in Arizona.
In 1968, he married Shirley Rowlett. They later moved to Kansas where David was stationed at Fort Riley. He retired at the rank of Sergeant First Class following 20 years in the Army.
Upon retiring, David purchased an 85-acre farm in Kincaid. In addition to raising some livestock and tending to his farm, David worked at the co-op in Kincaid for several years. David’s failing health dictated the sale of the farm and their move to Garnett in 2005. After moving to Garnett, David stayed busy with his large garden that he enjoyed sharing with family and friends. He loved and enjoyed most animals but he had a special love for dogs. David’s friends and family will always remember him for his patriotism.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
David is survived by his wife, Shirley; two sons, David E. Hill and wife, Gertraud, Lee’s Summit, Mo., John F. Hill and wife, Joy, Gladstone, Mo.; step-son, Randy Rowlett and wife, Gayle, Lenexa; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brother, John W. Hill and wife, Mary, Collins, Mo.; sister, Lillian Pauline Hatley, Chesterfield, Ill.
Funeral services with Masonic Rites will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, at the Feuerborn Family Funeral Service Chapel, Garnett. The family will greet friends following the service. Graveside services with Military Honors will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, at Mount Washington Cemetery, 614 South Brookside Avenue, Independence, Mo. 64053.
In lieu of flowers David’s family suggests making a contribution to Great Plains SPCA or to Shriners Hospitals for Children, sent in care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, PO BOX 408, Garnett, KS 66032. Condolences to the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.
David Hill Jr.
