Robert C. Hillegas, 78, husband of Barbara A. (Schoenly) Hillegas, died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.
Born in Pottstown, he was the son of the late Robert and Eleanor (Krause) Hillegas.
Bob was a devoted teacher and coach for 35 years in the Chester (2yrs), Reading (2yrs), and Boyertown (31 yrs) School Districts. He was an assistant coach for various sports at both the high school and collegiate levels throughout his early coaching career. In 1987, he achieved his lifelong dream of becoming the head football coach at Boyertown High School and brought pride back to the Boyertown football program. During his time as an educator and coach, he developed relationships that continued throughout his life. All that knew him would consider him to be a mentor, teacher, coach, friend, and one of the kindest, gentlest, and humble men you would ever meet. Whether you were lucky enough to hear one of his pre/post-game speeches, lessons in the classroom, or just have a casual conversation, his words inspired you to be the best person possible. Bob had many accomplishments throughout his playing and coaching careers. The highlights being inducted into the Boyertown and Kutztown University Football Hall of Fames and being named Educator of the Year for the Boyertown School District in 1998. Bob was a loving and devoted husband to his high school sweetheart, Barb, for 54 years. As a father, Bob was an unwavering source of support for Matt and Mike throughout their life. They were able to “tag” along with their dad to practices and games while growing up and developed a love for playing sports just like he did. He never missed a game, and was always there to show how proud he was whether or not the end result was a win or a loss. Bob continued coaching after his retirement and later transitioned into his role as “Poppy''. His favorite things to do were to support his grandchildren in all of their athletic, dance, and 4-H activities. He attended countless games, recitals, meets, fairs, a state championship, and witnessed many blue ribbons being won. He was super proud of his grandchildren and will be dearly missed by all of them.
Bob and Barb were able to travel throughout the United States, and enjoyed camping with their close knit group of friends. While he was at home, Bob also was able to enjoy weekly golf outings with many of his lifelong friends.
Surviving is his wife,Barbara, of 53 years, his son Matthew, fiancé of Beth, son Michael, husband of Michelle, grandchildren Lindsay, Emily, Morgan, Chad, and Marissa . He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Garrett and Ruth Stauffer, brother-in-law David Schoenly, and sister-in-law Mary Murrow, nieces and nephews, Ross Stauffer, Jennifer Hetcko, John Murrow, Lauren Everett and their families.
The Hillegas family would also like to extend a special thank you to Raleigh Crosby who has been his caregiver for the past year.
A visitation for friends and family to gather will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 11:00AM-2:00PM at Catagnus Funeral Home (1020 E. Philadelphia Ave., Gilbertsville, PA 19525). Burial will be held privately by the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in Robert’s name.