Daniel J. Hilton

Daniel J. Hilton, 71, of rural Viola died Saturday August 8, 2015 at his home. He was born July 9, 1944 in Vernon County to Jack and Grace Hilton. Dan was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam War from November 16, 1964 to February 27, 1969, serving on the USS Ranger. He married Maureen Dondero on December 8, 1983 in Reno, Nevada. The couple lived in Oregon, Washington and Illinois before moving back to Wisconsin about 20 years ago. They have lived at rural Viola the past 13 years. Dan worked for Texas Instruments and various other companies as a computer and communication specialist, retiring in 2009.

Dan loved his horses and labs, trail riding, the country life and spending time outdoors. His hero was Roy Rogers and he also had great respect for John Wayne and the integrity with which both men lived.

Survivors include his wife, Maureen; 2 brothers, Fred (Sandy) Hilton of Genesee, WI and Peter (Barbara) Hilton of Cummings, GA and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday August 11, 2015 at the Middle Coon Valley Lutheran Church. Rev. Margaret Eiben Hoversten will officiate. Burial with military honors will be in the church cemetery. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until service time at the church