Frederic N. Hilger, age 72 of Salem, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 14, 2024 after out fishing his brothers at their annual Minnesota fishing trip while he was battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Fred was born on April 16, 1952 in Chicago, the son of James George and Mary Lee (Howe) Hilger. He married Marlene A. Lobikis on September 25, 1986 in Palos Park, IL and she survives in Salem. In addition to his wife Marlene Hilger, he is survived by three children, Jason Hilger and wife Kelly of Oak Lawn, IL, Melissa Smith and husband James of Salem, and Miranda Lawrence and husband Rodney of Portage, IN; grandchildren, Lucas Sartori, Logan Ortiz, Vance Hilger, Jackson Hilger, Lila Lawrence, and Kaedan Ortiz; three brothers; and three sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents. Fred worked as the Service Manager for Ferguson’s Auto Repair in Salem and in the past had worked for Goodyear. He was a member of the Salem First Baptist Church for many years. Funeral Services for Frederic N. Hilger will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, October 18, 2024 at the Salem First Baptist Church with Dr. Andy Dewitt officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Salem. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com