John R. Hilbert, 77, retired owner and executive of Ampro Industries, formerly called Cowbell Seeds; died Saturday, Oct. 10, after a short illness.
John grew up in the small town of Wayland, where he learned to work hard on the farm at a young age. John was determined to succeed in all his endeavors. He was proud to be a member of the outstanding Wildcat basketball team that played in the state playoffs in 1961. Football, Track and Field, Pole Vaulting rounded out his high school resume.
John was well known and respected for his lifelong involvement with the Iconic Plank Road Farm and the production and marketing of Lawn Patch. He was a friend to many in the farming community in Michigan as he sold them their corn. A 1961 graduate of Wayland High School and later Michigan State University, he became an entrepreneur as the family business grew.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lynne; and his son, Todd; his parents, LaVerna and Frederic Hilbert; brothers, Scott and Michael Hilbert. He is survived by his children, Blair (Chad) Johnson, Zoe and Quinn Hilbert. He also leaves his grandchildren, Ava, Piper, and Cade Johnson; his brother, Ken (Jane), and his sisters-in-law, Jerrie and Kathy Hilbert.
Visitation was scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St., Grand Rapids.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of John may be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan, 3077 Wilson Dr., NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534.