Wilder, VT - William Robert Hillard of Wilder, VT., passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the age of 53 after a lifelong battle of diabetes and heart disease. He was born in Dover, NH to Daniel & Stephanie Hillard.

He was educated in the Hartford School System as well as Vermont Academy, where he graduated. He excelled in hockey and lacrosse while in high school and went on to play lacrosse at New England College where he was a star attack and one of the leading scorers. He was very adventurous and loved the outdoors. He was an avid skier, and a hiker. He climbed a number of mountains in New England and Machu Picchu with his father in Peru. He also enjoyed hunting and lake fishing, and also caught a few sharks while in Florida. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking and often made gifts for his loved ones. Will spent the majority of his career in construction, and jobs in hospitality.

Will was of Native American heritage and a member of Bras d'Or  M'ikmaq First Nation tribe, which explains his love of nature. Will was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but he also had a big heart and a good sense of humor. He was generous, loyal, brave, and would do anything for his family and friends. He was an animal lover, especially cats.

He is survived by his mother, Stephanie Hillard and his brother, Dan Hillard and Dan's wife, Patty. While our hearts mourn the loss, we take comfort knowing that he is no longer suffering.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Samaritan's Purse for Disaster Relief at www.samaritanspurse.org