Obituary of John Frederick Hildebrand

Dr. John F. T. Hildebrand passed away peacefully on October 18, 2018 at Hospice House Fredericton. Born September 25, 1925 in Birdton, NB, he was the son of the late John S. and Beatrice E. (Evans) Hildebrand. John is survived by his loving wife, Isabel (Ewing); his children Linda (Jeffrey) Deloughery of Moncton, NB, John (Sherrill Mullen) of Fredericton, NB, Alan of Calgary, AB, Katherine (Patrick Laforest) of Birdton, NB, and Barbara (Roland Cusack) of Halifax, NS; grandchildren John Andrew Hildebrand, Taylor Hildebrand and Benjamin Cusack; brother Douglas (Irene) Hildebrand of Fredericton, NB and sister-in-law Eileen Ewing of Charlottetown, PE; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Ethel (Wesley) Davidson, Eliza (Stuart) Seymour and infant Marion, and his brother-in-law Russell Ewing. A life-long educator, John was a graduate of Fredericton High School, the Provincial Normal School and the University of New Brunswick. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from St. Thomas University. John taught at several schools in New Brunswick including Juniper, Bristol, St. George, Keswick Ridge, Fredericton High School, Albert Street School and Harkins Academy, Newcastle. While Director of Practical Studies at the NB Teachers College, he co-authored the text book, “Synthesis of Teaching Methods.” John was Superintendent of Schools in the Fredericton area for many years. One of his most satisfying achievements was the introduction of early French Immersion into the Fredericton schools. John was active in the United Church of Canada – as an Elder, and committee and choir member of the Nashwaaksis congregation, the first lay Chairman of the Fredericton presbytery, and President of the Maritime Conference United Church Men. He served on both the Board of Regents and Senate of Mount Allison University. John played a leadership role in many other community organizations including the YMCA, the Epsilon Y’s Men’s club and the Y’s Men’s Saint John River Valley district, the Fredericton Exhibition and its Harness Racing Committee, the Central NB Welsh Society and Cardigan Historical Project, and the Smith Loyal Orange Lodge #144, where he was a 50 year member. He was also an active member of the Liberal Party of New Brunswick. A member of the NB Antique Auto Club, John enjoyed restoring his 1928 Nash. Throughout his life he delighted in singing and making music, and was an enthusiastic bridge player. And for over 50 years he reveled in the special times and adventures at the family cottage on Miramichi Lake. Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive on Sunday, October 21, 2018 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Funeral Service will take place at Nashwaaksis United Church on Monday, Oct 22, 2018 at 2pm, with Rev. Frank Curtis officiating. A reception will follow, then interment in Douglas Rural Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Fredericton YMCA, Nashwaaksis United Church, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com.