Gary Arlyn Hilgenkamp, age 81 of Arlington, Nebraska went to his eternal home on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.

The eldest son of Harvey and Elsie (Ahlmeyer) Hilgenkamp was born April 26, 1940 on the family homestead, where Gary lived most of his life.

Gary attended Bisbee School and St. Paul's Lutheran School in rural Arlington, and graduated from Arlington High School in 1958. After graduation, he served his country in the Nebraska Air National Guard where his unit received the Wilson Trophy for being one of the top rated units in the country.

He married the love of his life, JoAnn Bradbury, on September 2, 1962 in Fremont, Nebraska, continuing to live on the homestead raising swine, milking cows, growing grains and hay, and raising a young family.

Gary was proud to be a lifelong farmer and member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. He enjoyed animals, antique tractors, and fishing, but his true joy came from spending time with his family and friends. He was known for his sense of humor, generosity, kind spirit, and love of God.

He is survived by son Rick Hilgenkamp (Wendy), granddaughters Hannah and Lily, great grandson Ryker all of Arlington, daughter Sherie Hilgenkamp (Tom Streeter) of Newcastle, Wyoming, brother Rollyn Hilgenkamp of Arlington, sister Judy Bushek of Littleton, Colorado, and beloved extended family and a multitude of dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

His Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 am, Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Arlington, Nebraska. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 on Monday, December 13, 2021, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.duganchapel.com

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Lutheran Family Services, or LCMS Mission Central.