Russell Hilbert

Russell Bartholomew Hilbert

February 11, 1948 – October 4, 2025

Husband of the late Karen S. Hilbert (née Cronin).

Beloved father of Russell (Sharon), Gary (April), and Brian (Christine).

Devoted grandfather of Gary Jr., Kiera McMonagle, Eric, Rebecca Torres (Angelo), Russell, Brian Jr., Timothy, and Chloe.

Cherished great-grandfather of Zoe Torres and Elijah Torres.

Son of the late Joseph B. Hilbert and Mary Mock (née Nolan).

Survived by his siblings Ron Hilbert (Cathy), Edwin Ulmer (Maryann), Katherine Watson (Jim), and Maureen Combs (Dave), and by his brother-in-law Bill Cronin (Elaine).

Predeceased by siblings Steve Hilbert (Chris), Bill Hilbert (Terri), Peggy Streeper (Walt), and Jo-Ann Hedge (Paul).

Russell attended Roman Catholic High School before enlisting in the United States Army in 1965 at just 17 years old. While home on leave in 1966, he met the love of his life, Karen S. Cronin, and the two were married on March 30, 1968.

He proudly served 21½ years in the Army, stationed at Fort Buckner (Okinawa), Fort Bliss (Texas), Germany, Fort Hood (Texas), Fort Lewis (Washington), and eventually back in Philadelphia. Known affectionately as “Top,” Russell earned two Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat and rose to the rank of First Sergeant (1SG) before retiring in 1986.

After his military service, Russell and Karen settled in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, where they raised their sons. He went on to serve 28 additional years in the U.S. Navy, including 14 years with NAVSAS (Naval Safety and Health), where he rose from inspector to head supervisor. He later joined OSHA (The Occupational Safety and Health Administration), ultimately becoming the Head of OSHA for the Northeastern States before his final retirement in June 2015.

In retirement, Russell enjoyed traveling with Karen, watching all the Harry Potter movies (often more than once), and spending time with his family—especially his grandchildren.

He lost the love of his life in July of this year, and life was never quite the same without her. His family finds comfort in knowing that Russell and Karen are together again.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, November 7th, from 10 AM to 12 noon at McCafferty Sweeney Slabinski Barnes Funerals and Cremations, 2614 Orthodox Street, Philadelphia. Words of remembrance will be spoken at 12 noon. Interment and military honors will be held privately at Washington Crossing National Cemetery at a later date.