Carl Edward Hilburn

“I said to myself, self….today is the first day of the rest of my life” Carl Edward Hilburn, 81, of Meeker, OK, died peacefully Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at his home with his wife & family at his side. Carl’s death marks the end of a long battle with Parkinson’s disease and prostate cancer. He was born in Cooperton, OK on April 3, 1932 to William Ellis & Alta Ola (Jones) Hilburn. After school, Carl joined the Army where he proudly served his country in the Korean War. Carl reached the rank of Corporal and was awarded a Korean Service Medal with five bronze service stars, a UN Service Medal, & a Japan Army of Occupation Medal. After his discharge from the Army, Carl moved to the Stamford, TX area where he met his wife, Patty Ann Register. They married July 28, 1956. Together they raised six boys as well as playing a vital role in the lives of their grandchildren. Carl was very proud of his work in the oil field and trucking businesses as well as his favorite hobby, horse trading. Carl is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Carl Hilburn Jr., three brothers, and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patty Ann (Register) Hilburn; five sons, Keith Hilburn of Warr Acres, OK; Ken Hilburn & wife Cindy of Meeker, OK; Mark Hilburn of Meeker, OK; Russell Hilburn & wife Terrie of Shawnee, OK; & Chad Hilburn & wife Leslie of Edinburg, TX; nine grandchildren & ten great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers & two sisters. Carl’s family would like to extend a very special THANK YOU to all of the staff at Faith Hospice, especially Rick, Christie, & Demetria. An informal memorial service for family & friends will be held at his home in Meeker this Saturday, March 22, from 1-4pm. All are welcome to attend. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.