James Ralph Hildebrand

There is a great line from a Sam Peckinpah movie that say "Its not so much the dyin' that you hate; it's the not knowing what they're going to say about you." From everything we've heard since Ralph, Rufus, Hog Jaws, Dad, died; he need not worry. James Ralph "Rufus" Hildebrand, died Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015 at the age of 93. His wife of almost 7 decades, Betty Barclay, whom he lovingly referred to as "Hot Lips" was by his side until the very end. Betty and his four daughters, Pam, Sherri, Penny, and Polly, felt the love the day after his January 20h passing from those who cared for him much of the past three years. They truly loved him, and felt blessed to know him. The Hildebrand family truly believes these caregivers are angels on earth. Ralph was smiley, friendly, considerate, compassionate, and giggly, embracing his inner-child. He loved his family, his friends, and life. But, declining health the past few years prevented him from pursuing his passions of hunting, fishing, boating, skiing, and life on the Lake of the Ozarks. Ralph was a unique character and lived larger than life. he was a putterer, a story teller, and the life of every party. Ralph was the son of Irvin and Ona Hildebrand of Windyville. Siblings were Lowell, Naomi, Lorea, Bert, and Vivian. Ralph was the last surviving sibling. Ralph was a WWII veteran serving in the Coast Guard. He married Betty Pauline Barclay of Tunas, February 6, 1947 in Columbus, Kansas. They moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa where they raised their four daughters. Upon retiring, they returned to Versallies, Missouri where they enjoyed living on the Lake of the Ozarks, and then came full circle and settled in Buffalo to be closer to family. In addition to his loving wife and daughters, Ralph was blessed with wonderful son-in-laws: The late Craig Cerney, Bill Grimes, Brian Whitney, and David Hinshaw; six grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. There's a quote that states, "If all of life is a stage, then I want better lighting." Ralph had perfect lighting, and the world was his stage. He will be missed. If you were lucky enough to cross paths with Ralph Hildebrand, you'll never forget him. A Celebration of Life Service was held Saturday, January 24th at the Montgomery-Viets Chapel. Bill Grimes gave the eulogy. Military Honors were given by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Galmey VFW Post #9638. Cremation rites were then accorded by the Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo.

James Ralph Hildebrand

December 27, 1921 - January 20, 2015