With the heaviest of hearts, we share with you the peaceful passing of Gary Frederick Hillman on September 17, 2026, with his family by his side.

Born in 1957 to Marjorie and Lorne Hillman, Gary grew up in Poplar Point, MB and attended Poplar Point School from grades one thru six. He then went to Crescentview School for grades seven through nine, then graduating high school from Arthur Meighen in 1975.

Gary met Maureen at the age of 17, and they married when he was 21. They had two beautiful sons; David and Ken. Gary was a real family man and his family was most important to him. He loved hockey, playing goalie in his younger years. He coached his son Ken’s hockey team when Ken decided to play goalie. He also loved fishing with family and friends.

Gary worked a few jobs; selling cars in Winnipeg, installing radio systems at his Uncle’s dealership in Portage la Prairie – Glen’s Datsun.

He was a true entrepreneur, where he first started Gary’s Upholstering in his early 20’s, then Prestige Interiors cleaning carpets and upholstery, before delving into the blind business when Dynamic Window Coverings was established. It is here that he found the most pleasure helping people. Gary continued to run his business until a diagnosis of cancer forced him to retire.

Gary’s greatest passion was woodworking, and his love for tinkering in his workshop. Anyone in his circle received a genuine piece of art that he always had such pride in not only creating, but gifting to family and friends.

After living in numerous places, the Hillman’s finally settled at the Peony Farm, where they found their home, which they have resided at for over 35+ years.

Gary became an active member in the Peony Farm Community, where he was President of the organization for several years. Once the torch was passed, he remained on the community board and would help out where ever possible and when ever asked.

Living within a small community, you really get to know your neighbours, and we’ve been blessed with some of the best and kindest.

A huge thank you to Curtis and Debbie Reeves, and Greg Johnson and Edie Story for stepping in and helping where ever possible, which eased Gary’s worries, as he was using most of his energy fighting a battle he didn’t ask for.

A huge thank you to brother Reg, for being our Rock, through this most difficult time, driving us to appointments in the city which was so much relief to Gary. His heart was full of love and gratitude.

Gary was predeceased by his younger brother Gerald, father Lorne, and his mother Marjorie, brother-in-law David Curtis and sister-in-law Penny Scott.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 47 years, Maureen, son David and daughter-in-law Roxanne, his son Ken and daughter-in-law Shannon Mulvey, sister Rilla Curtis and brother Raymond.

Brothers and sisters-in-law; Gerald & Joanne Mooney, Walter & Gail Mooney, Sharon Mooney & Kenny Robinson, Reg Wylie & Victoria Letourneau, along with numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Aunties; Lorna McDougall, Sharon McDougall and Phylis McDougall, dear friends; James & Jacquiline Hiebert, and Brad & Adele McMurray.

The Hillman Family would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to the doctors and nurses from the ER and surgical ward for your kindness and compassion. Our hearts are full – thank you.

Gary was such a loving husband, a fantastic caring father, and a true and loyal friend. 

He will be forever loved, forever treasured and greatly missed.

In keeping with Gary’s wishes, his family will celebrate his life privately.

Should friends so desire memorial donations can be made to Diabetes Canada MB Regional Office, 401-1 Wesley Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4C6, Central Plains Cancer Care, 318 Sask. Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 0K8 or to the charity of ones choice.

Messages of condolences can made online at www.flynnmemorial.com

Flynn Memorial Services is honoured to assist the family of Gary Hillman.

Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with you during this difficult time.