Robert Lee Hilton, age 67, passed away peacefully at Southwest Healthcare Hospital in Bowman, ND, June 27, 2014, after a courageous battle with ALS. Funeral services for Robert will be held Thursday, July 3, 2014, 2:00 p.m. at the Bowman Lutheran Church, with Pastor Charles Swanson officiating. Visitation for Robert will be Wednesday, July 2,2014 from 12:00 pm to 9:00 p.m. at the Krebsbach an Kulseth Funeral Home.

Robert was born March 10, 1947, to Edgar and Harriet (Foust) Hilton. The eldest of five children, he was reared at the family home in Bowman, graduating from Bowman High School in 1965. During his time as a youth, Robert spent his afternoons at the Hilton Chevrolet Garage (which his parents owned from 1946-1964). Most days he could be found tagging behind Levi Anderson or Gerald McLaughlin. Robert enjoyed his days working at the Chevrolet Garage, although his true passion was always farming. He started farming at the age of 12, helping Jack Vail on a Fordson tractor. Robert graduated from Bowman High School in 1965 and followed his dream of farming.

On February 5, 1978, he was united in marriage to his wife Louise (Cliché) Alastra, gaining a wonderful son, John, and later having Kevin and Melissa. Louise learned fast how to be a farmer's wife. Before long, he had a successful business farming with his brother Charlie, son Kevin, and hired hand Craig Reindel (whom became less of an employee and more like a son).

Robert also showed a desire for car collecting, with his favorite car being his red 1963 Chevrolet Impala, a replica of one he owned in high school. His family vacations consisted of any car show (when he wasn't farming) and "camping" at George and Irene Kralicek's anytime there was farming to be done. He was always a busy man, never being one for taking time off and relaxing.

In 2011, Robert and Louise purchased a house in Queen Creek, Arizona, which they enjoyed as time allowed. They started spending their winters there making many new friends.

Robert was diagnosed with ALS in November, 2011. He fought a courageous battle, never complaining and was always worried about everyone else. He always looked forward to company coming over for happy hour (or happy hours). Robert spent numerous hours with Zac Eslinger. Zac was his arms and did for him all he couldn't do.

Robert maintained a positive outlook on life up until his last days. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and a true friend to many that knew him. He was always honest and straightforward, and will be missed by many.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Louise, his son John (Holly) Alastra of Helena, MT, son Kevin (Brooks) Hilton of Bowman, ND, daughter Melissa Hilton of Bowman, ND, his favorite dog Skyler (who never left his side), two brothers Charlie (Rosie) Hilton of Bowman, ND, and Greg Hilton of Chicago IL, a brother-in-law, Charlie Keller of Scranton, ND, niece Tami Hilton of Dickinson ND, nephew Geoff (Jennifer) Hilton of Minot, ND, niece Michelle (Jason) Hamamoto of Seattle WA, and his wonderful grandchildren, Taylor and Ryder Alastra, Jakob and Tatum Hilton, and Braeden Wallenberg.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Harriet Hilton and his sisters, Carol Keller and Susie Hilton.

Krebsbach and Kulseth Funeral Services in charge of the arrangements.