David and Janet Hileman are being remembered for their generosity to the community, a commitment that earned them the Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation’s Philanthropy Award in 2018. Courtesy photo

The local agriculture community has lost one of its key players with the passing of David Hileman.

Hileman, 81, of Sinking Valley, peacefully passed away on June 7.

David passed away less than a month after the passing of his wife of 47 years, Janet, 93, who died May 13 at Homewood Living Martinsburg.

The Hilemans’ passion was dairy farming as witnessed by the growth of Hilecrest Farms from a family-owned business initially started and partnered with his parents to one of the more successful dairy operations in the central Pennsylvania region.

Their success in the dairy farming business has been recognized with numerous awards including Outstanding Farmland Conservation Award, Excellence in Small Business Award, Agriculture Community Excellence Award and the Dairyman of the Year Award at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin.

Over the years, the Hilemans participated in philanthropic endeavors benefiting the people of central Pennsylvania that had a profound impact on furthering the lives and opportunities for young people in the area. Beginning in 2006, the Hilemans began a scholarship program providing hundreds of scholarships for high school seniors.

In 2018, the Hilemans received the Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation’s Philanthropy Award.

“They were the cutest couple. They loved meeting all of the students who received scholarships from their foundation under CPCF. They would usually fund 25 to 30 scholarships each year through their foundation,” said foundation CEO Jodi Cessna.

The Hilemans were big supporters of the Tyrone Area FFA Chapter, and in 2024, received the chapter’s prestigious Blue & Gold Award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to agricultural education and provided exceptional support to FFA members.

David and Janet Hileman’s influence on the Tyrone Area FFA Chapter extended far beyond financial support.

“Through their generosity, countless students were provided opportunities to pursue higher education. The Hileman family established scholarships for local 4-H and FFA members attending trade schools, technical institutions, colleges, and universities. In addition, students earning the Keystone FFA Degree — the highest degree awarded by the Pennsylvania FFA Association — received scholarship support through their commitment to youth development,” FFA advisor Tiffany Hoy said.

David Hileman served on numerous boards over the years, including the Fort Roberdeau Association.

Hileman served on the board for more than two decades, including several years as president.

“He was a man of few words but they carried a lot of weight. One time he told me, ‘Glenn, the fort is looking a little rough.'” That was my first major job — to repair the fort wall. We got the logs replaced in two years,” Director Glenn Nelson said. “His legacy at Fort Roberdeau was his leadership and generosity. I considered him my mentor.”

Joe Hurd, retired president/CEO of the Blair County Chamber of Commerce, said Hileman was a true gentleman who always looked for ways to help others be successful.

“Although ag was his passion, he had a sincere desire to support and energize young people to follow their hearts in all worthwhile endeavors. His involvement with the Chamber’s Farm City Committee spearheaded efforts to keep the business community focused on the issues that matter most in furthering the best interests of the local economy,” Hurd said.

Both graduates of Tyrone Area High School, the Hilemans were big supporters of the Tyrone Area School District.

“The Tyrone Area School District will greatly miss the support, generosity, and friendship of David Hileman. David, along with Janet, was a steadfast supporter of our schools and our students, with a particular passion for agricultural education. He took a genuine interest in the success of the district, staying informed about our programs, budget, and the achievements of our students,” Superintendent Leslie Estep said. “Through the David & Janet Hileman Family Foundation, he helped provide educational opportunities and recognition to hundreds of students, celebrating academic, athletic, and artistic accomplishments.”

David Hileman spoke to students about career success and professional growth.

“He offered a piece of advice that has stayed with many of our members long after graduation: ‘It is easy to hear what someone is saying, but are you truly listening?’ This simple yet profound message challenged students to become better communicators, leaders and professionals,” Hoy said.

Friends will be received at Richard H. Searer Funeral Home from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday. A memorial service will be held for Dave and Janet at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sinking Valley at 10 a.m. Saturday.

Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 814-946-7467.