Obituary for John Edward Hillis

John Edward Hillis, age 79, of Portland, passed away on April 2, 2022. The son of Edward and Mary Hillis, John grew up in Portland and spent much of his time in the great outdoors; he especially enjoyed the woods behind his childhood home. In his younger years, John enjoyed playing softball with his friends. Most of the time, he could be found tinkering in his pole barn, woodworking or helping his son, John, troubleshoot his many projects over the years. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and regularly received personal updates from his son, Brian about Portland High School football. John was a simple, caring man, who will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Preceding John in death are his son, John Hillis II, parents; Edward and Mary Hillis; in-laws, John and Mildred Cooper; and his brother and sisters. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of almost 49 years, Diane Hillis; children, Johnna Hillis, Dawn Hillis, Brian (Teresa) Hillis, Jackie Hillis, Brandi Welch, Jenny (Ryan) Fedewa, Tammy (Jonathan) Bair, Laura (Simran) Virk, and Cheryl (Jason) Tennihill; 25 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life honoring John will take place at the Portland VFW Post #4090, 1324 E. Bridge Street, Portland on Wednesday, April 13th from 4-8 p.m. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.