Douglas Rex Hilton, beloved husband, son, father, eldest brother and Papa, passed away in his home with the comfort of his family Nov. 17, 2023.
Born in California and raised in Kansas, Doug became an avid spectator of all sports, especially those involving his family. Doug will be best remembered within the Great Bend community because of his bigger-than-life persona and his raw athletic ability. Doug’s laughter had such bass, it could be heard by all the children playing downstairs during the holidays; and when Doug spoke, people listened. He enjoyed spending time with his family, including three-wheeling, hunting and fishing. Doug’s eyes really lit up when talking about childhood memories and all the times he got in trouble with his mother, but it was usually the fault of his siblings.
Doug was involved in many sports throughout his life including rodeo, arm wrestling, softball and track and field, but he was best known for his time spent on the football field at Great Bend High School. His size and quickness earned him All-State honors for offensive line and defensive line. He was heavily recruited by major universities including Notre Dame, USC, UCLA, Ohio State and KSU.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents Rodney Keith Hilton and Veda Hilton, and his wife Karen Hilton. Those left to cherish his memory include his sister Vicky Mitchell and Lee Mitchell; brother Lyle; brother Steve and wife Dara; the children he loved and called his own, son Dale and his wife Jana; daughter Cary Hilton; stepson Jason Myers; and stepdaughter Janette Linsky and husband Russ, Donna Ramsey. Survivors also include his grandkids Alexis Hurd, Jaylin Brown and fiancé John Boese, Trey Hurd, Brendon Hilton, Jonathan Hilton, Caroline Linsky, Charlotte Linsky, Danton Hilton and Daymon Hilton; three great grandchildren, five nephews, and three nieces.
Flowers and other contributions can be sent to 1218 Baker Avenue in Great Bend, c/o Cary Hilton. Memorial service will be at Cross Point Church in Great Bend Dec. 2 at 10:30 a.m.
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Dec. 2, 2023
