Hilton T. Bonilla

Hilton T. Bonilla, of Walden, NY, passed away Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Middletown, NY. He was 80.

The son of the late Santiago and Luz Maria (Acevedo) Bonilla, he was born March 13, 1944 in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

Hilton was married to the love of his life Elsie for 60 years. Hilton was an amazing father to his son Mark being present in the stands for almost every game from little league, to high school, to college, then still rooting with pride as he watched Mark become a coach. But being Papa to his grandchildren Rebecca, Andrew, and Alyssa brought him his greatest joy. They will remember him as their best friend, their #1 fan, and craziest man in the room. Hilton loved big, loved hilariously, and celebrated each and every moment he could with his family. 

Hilton was an avid runner. Training with the Bronx Roadrunners club he completed ten NYC Marathons, a Spartan Race, and many 5k’s.

Hilton happily worked for nearly 57 years at the Statue of Liberty where he was proudly named “Liberty’s Fastest Man”. 

Hilton was a member of Fusion Church and was thankful for the faithful prayers, friendships, and support from his church family. Hilton found peace in the Word of God.

He is survived by his loving wife Elsie Bonilla, his son Mark & his wife Rachel, grandchildren Rebecca, Andrew, and Alyssa, sister Helen Vila, sister Carmen Bonilla, cousin Wanda Lampon and sister-in-law Priscilla Rodriguez.       

Visitation will be Saturday, November 16, 2024, 12pm-2:30pm at Millspaugh Funeral Home, 22 Bank St., Walden, NY 12586.

A Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:30pm at the funeral home.

Cremation will take place privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Feeding America 161 North Clark Street, Suite 700, Chicago, IL 60601.

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