John Henry Hillman, age 86, of Kersey, Colorado, passed away peacefully at his home on December 24, 2024, surrounded by his devoted wife of 53 years, Judieth, and his beloved dog, Kacey. He faced a long and courageous battle with congestive heart disease, showing strength and resilience throughout.

Born on October 1, 1938, at the family home near Kimball, Nebraska, to John Ernest Fred and Eleanor Adelaid Sophie (Wiechman) Hillman, Johnnie spent his early years in rural Colorado, attending grade school at the country school Vim and then attending Kimball High School.

As a lifelong member of the Lutheran faith, Johnnie was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church east of Grover, Colorado. His faith remained an essential foundation throughout his life.

Johnnie was married twice. First to Dawn Jean Irgens, with whom he had four children (Terri Jill, Cindi Lynne, Jeffrey Michael, and Steven John). Later, he married Judieth Lea Wilshusen in 1971, with whom he had two children (Jon Jay and Martin Robert).

In 1956, at the age of 17, Johnnie enlisted in the United States Navy. As a Signalman, he was stationed in San Diego, California, and deployed aboard a Destroyer. After an honorable discharge in 1959, he remained in the reserves until 1962.

Upon returning to Colorado, Johnnie worked various jobs, including the Weld County Sheriff's Office, Monfort Packing House, and ultimately retired in February 2004 from the Town of Kersey. His strong work ethic and deep commitment to his community defined his career and earned him the respect of his peers.

Johnnie was passionate about rodeo, especially bull riding. In his younger years, he competed in the sport but later enjoyed watching Professional Bull Riding (PBR) and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

Raised on a ranch in northeastern Colorado, Johnnie cherished the memories of spring cattle drives and area brandings. He found joy in horseback riding, painting, fishing, and camping in the mountains. His talent extended to music as well; he was a gifted musician who could play several instruments by ear, including the piano, bass, lead, and steel guitars. He loved performing for family and friends, and his impromptu songs and weekend performances will be fondly remembered.

Johnnie is survived by his wife Judieth; his children Terri (John) of Windsor, Missouri, Cindi (Brent) Stoneking of Burns, Wyoming, Jeffrey (Brenda) of Burns, Wyoming, Jon Jay of Wheatland, Wyoming, and Martin (Kim) of Wheatland, Wyoming/Eaton, Colorado; daughter-in-law Andrea of Larkspur, Colorado; grandchildren Tiffani (Johnny), Michael, Alycia, Cami (Shannon), Kaylee (Kyle), Amber (Ben), Seth, Trenton, and Cheyenne; great-grandchild Kason, Koyer, and Ryker; sister Janet (Glenn) of Grover, Colorado; brothers Jimmie and Jay of Grover, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his son Steve, parents John and Eleanor, and brother Jack. Johnnie's spirit and love for life will always be remembered by those who knew him

A celebration of Johnnie's life will take place at Kersey Community Church on February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. A lunch will follow at the church's fellowship hall.

Donations can be made to the American Heart Association or Western Sports Foundation in care of Moser Funeral Service, 3501 11th Avenue, Evans, CO 80620.