Gertrude Hills

Gertrude Bertha Hills, affectionately known as Gert, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, at the age of 95 in Yorkville, Illinois. Born on April 16, 1930, in Aurora, Illinois, Gert was a beacon of light and love in the lives of all who knew her.

Gert's life was one marked by devotion to her family, her art, and her community. She was a beloved wife to her husband, Richard Dee Hills, with whom she shared 74 years of marriage after meeting through mutual friends. Together, they raised their family in Aurora, where Gert was born and raised. Their union was blessed with sons Robert (Jane) Hills and Thomas (Sue) Hills, grandchildren Julie (Russ) Jespersen, Jason Hills, Nicole (TJ) Lyle, and Daniel (Karedon) Hills, and great-grandchildren Garrett Jespersen, Carson Jespersen, Arabella Hills, Alivia Lyle, Saylor Hills, and Riley Lyle. Gert also cherished her relationships with her sister Marjorie (Frank) Vermaat, brother Richard (Claudine) Stirn, nephew Mike (Kathy) Carney, niece Karen (Joe) Richmond, and nephew Frank Vermaat III. She was predeceased by her father Ernst Stirn, mother Bertha Walther Stirn, sister Jean Carney, brother Kenneth Stirn, and daughter Susan Lyn Hills.

Gert's professional life was as diverse and vibrant as her personality. Her first job was in the kitchen at Copley Hospital, which sparked a lifelong interest in nurturing others. She later worked part-time at Martha’s Art Mansion in Aurora, where she could indulge her passion for art. Gert eventually retired from the family business, Carl Stirn’s Marine in Aurora, where she left a lasting impact.

A proud daughter of German immigrants, Gert took great pride in her heritage and had the opportunity to travel to Germany, connecting with her roots. She was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Aurora, where she found spiritual solace and community. Gert's artistic talents were evident in her beautiful paintings and uniquely painted wooden carvings and gourds. She also generously gave her time as a Den Mother for the scouts, guiding and nurturing young minds.

Gert was a caring, loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend to many. She was known for her generous spirit, thoughtfulness, and loving nature. Her presence was a gift to those around her, and her memory will be treasured forever.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

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