Dona Marie Hilgers

DONA MARIE HILGERS OBITUARY

Dona Hilgers took her last breath on earth, and her first in heaven, on May 4th, 2022.  She was born Dona Marie Becker, in Aberdeen, South Dakota. She died in Littleton, Colorado. At the time of her death those gathered at her bedside were singing “The Old Rugged Cross.” She opened her eyes one last time, and upon closing them, she passed into eternity, at peace, with many of her beloved family present.

She is survived by her husband Gary Hilgers, her children, Terry Hilgers (Nancy Abbott), Debbie (Dan) Hannum, Denny (Carol) Hilgers, Kevin (Danelle) Hilgers, Chris (John) Leach. Grandchildren, Jeremiah (Heather) Hilgers, Joshua (Ashley) Hilgers, Heather (Jesse) Spradley, Jake (Kim) Wood, Jonathan (Gina) Wood, Jessica (Jared) Englerth, Shanna (Ben) Weddle, Jenna (Jeremy) Bitner, Austin Hilgers, Justin (Kelly) Hilgers, Jeff (Heather) Hilgers, Jerad (Brooke) Hilgers, Amie (Ryan) Joseph, Brent Leach, Kate (JJ) Matott, David (Hannah) Leach, Daniel (Holly) Leach. And 50 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, children and grandchildren, she is survived by her sisters Carol (Jim) Garner, Cheri (Gene) Kroh, Laurie Becker and several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death, by her father Henry Becker, and Mother Dorothy Becker, her brothers, Ronnie Becker, Arlen Becker, and sister, Judy Minnard.

Dona was 4 years old when her family moved to Colorado to find work during World War II. They settled in College View, in an area of South Denver. Dona attended, Sheridan Union High School, where she first met her future husband, Gary Hilgers.  Henry Becker wasn’t too fond of Gary due to his ducktail haircut and turned up collar.  They sent Dona to South Dakota for the summer with the hope of breaking up this relationship.  It didn’t work as the parents planned. Upon returning for the school year, Dona’s mom realized how much her daughter loved Gary.  She made it clear he was the only one she would love.  They were married February 27th, 1954.

After a difficult start to their marriage, Gary and Dona experienced a radical life change when they met Jesus in 1959. They became members at, Lakewood First Assembly of God, where they became involved, and modeled to their growing family of five, a devotion to God and ministry. This example led to 4 children in full-time ministry, all five children teaching their children and grandchildren the legacy of faith.  Not only their children, but many of the grandchildren now serve as pastors and missionaries. Dona was passionate for prayer and the Word of God. In 1998, Dona and Gary partnered with their son in-law John Leach and daughter, Chris in starting a new church, in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Jubilee Fellowship Church was blessed by her years of experience and gifts in church leadership.  Dona was given the responsibility of hospitality. She would greet with an exceptional smile and warmth.  Over the years, many people would say, she was the first one he or she met, and came back because of her loving nature.  She served as a greeter into her eighties, until her health no longer allowed.

Dona was creative in many mediums, from painting, interior decorating, to knitting, crochet, sewing and quilting.  She had many employment experiences, but the one that stands out, is proud business owner of Second Expressions Boutique.

A modern version of the Proverbs 31 woman.  She was a great wife, mother, and grandmother who faithfully served Jesus all her life. She lived and loved life well.  Her family and friends will miss her beauty, her smile, her warmth, and love.                          

                                                                                               CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE

                                                                                               Friday, August 19th, 2022 1:30pm

                                                                                                   Jubilee Fellowship Church                                                                                                            

                                                                                                       9359 East Nichols Ave

                                                                                                        Centennial, CO 80112

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