Robert C. Hilton Jr., 57, of Newcastle, died unexpectedly on Nov. 4. He was born on Oct. 26, 1953 at Miles Memorial Hospital to Robert C. and Rachel (Chase) Hilton of Newcastle.
Bob attended Franklin Grammar School and graduated from Lincoln Academy in 1973. He was voted in as the class marshal by the graduating class, leading them in to graduate. While at Lincoln, he excelled at cross country running and track. He received many awards in both sports.
On Aug. 7, 1977, he married Elayn Gardiner of Damariscotta. They resided in North Newcastle where they had two daughters, Amanda and Ashley.
Bob began his career in the excavation business with the Chester Rice Co. around 1976, where he learned the trade and became very good at what he did. After working for Chester for 10 years, he left and went to work for Laroy Ellinwood for a couple of years. He started his own business, Bob Hilton Excavation, after working for Laroy. His truck could be seen around the area while working for many local people and summer residents.
He enjoyed working in his many vegetable gardens, making sure there were never any weeds present. He also enjoyed taking care of his very large lawn and doing landscaping around his house. He was an avid Red Sox and Patriots fan and enjoyed watching the games through summer and fall, especially when they finally won their long awaited championships.
Bob was predeceased by both of his parents; sister, Anne Hilton; father-in-law, Robert Gardiner; and brother-in-law, Mark Gardiner.
He is survived by his wife, Elayn of Newcastle; daughters, Amanda and husband Dave Chaisson of Old Town and Ashley and husband Isaiah Onorato and their children Marcus Robert and Leah Rose of Bristol; sisters, Sara and husband Dan Caron of Portland and Eliza and husband Gary Tibbetts of Nobleboro; brothers and sisters-in-law, John and Susan Geyer of Bristol, Rob and Roxann Gardiner of Damariscotta and Jim and Gretchen Gardiner of Nobleboro; mother-in-law, Lorraine Gardiner of Nobleboro; as well as many nieces and nephews.
The public is invited to a gathering of family and friends at the American Legion Hall in Damariscotta 3 p.m., Mon., Nov. 15.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Lincoln Academy Track Field fund, c/o Lincoln Academy Development Office, 81 Academy Hill, Newcastle, ME 04553.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
