Keith Karlton Hilbig

Keith Karlton Hilbig, beloved husband, father of 6, and grandfather of 31 passed away August 22, 2015, at the age of 73.  He was born March 13, 1942, son of Karl and Mildred Bower Hilbig.  He and his brother, Wayne, were raised in a home of the highest standards in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

An enthusiastic Eagle Scout, he was an exemplary leader in his youth at school and in church.  He served a mission in the Central German Mission from 1962-1965 and graduated Cum Laude in History from Princeton University in 1967. 

Before he returned to Princeton after his mission, he attended Brigham Young University for one semester, where he met the love of his life, Susan Logie.  They were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1, 1967. 

After graduating from Duke Law School, he worked as a trial attorney in Los Angeles and soon established his own firm in the South Bay area.  In 1998 he became International Legal Counsel for the Church in all three European areas.  One law partner commented, “Keith was a powerful influence on many attorneys. He taught them to keep the law in perspective with the gospel.  He was the great proof in their lives that one could zealously, professionally, and effectively represent a client and remain at all times pleasant, personable, courteous and filled with integrity.”

He always protected his priorities, placing the kingdom of heaven first at home and at church.    He willingly consecrated his considerable time, talents and resources to do whatever the Lord asked of him.

Since his service as Pasadena Ward Bishop at age 30, his life has been devoted to Church service.  A revered seminary and institute teacher for a short time, he was called to be the second Stake President of the Palos Verdes California Stake from 1978 to 1988 and Mission President of the Switzerland, Zurich Mission from 1989 to 1992.  Students and missionaries credit him for the large impact he had on their testimonies, choices, and character.  He always was a great example of leadership, power, humility, gentle kindness, restraint, discipline, and love.

A trusted friend said of him, “In private, he had the quickest wit I'd ever been around. In difficult situations, there was no one I trusted more to come up with fair decisions. In decorum, he was elegant and gentlemanly. As a referee in children's soccer, there was no one on or off the field who was more gentle with little kids. In private council, I never heard a judgmental tone coming from him about another. He stood firm as a watchman on the tower of Zion. We were all better and safer as a result of his attention to duty.”

When he was called into the Quorum of Seventy, he served in the Area Presidencies of Europe East, North America Northwest, and the South Pacific as well as serving on multiple committees at Church Headquarters.

Most importantly, he was an exceptionally thoughtful and kind, devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose example, gentle expectations and inspirational teachings inspired his own posterity to follow Jesus Christ and serve the Lord.  He was their biggest fan, confidant, and very best friend.  As a result his posterity is and always will be his most loyal fans and most fortunate beneficiaries.

Though his capacity was severely compromised during the last stages of Alzheimer’s, it could never dim his considerable light.  His pleasant, spiritual and dignified presence amazed all who cared for him to his last breath.  That sharp mind, and brilliant wit have been restored!  At last he is involved once again in the service of the Lord! 

He is survivied by his spouse, Susan, six children, Clarke (Maren), Jennifer Saylin (Greg), Todd (Jennifer), Allyson Smith (Matt), Paul (Sarah), Craig (Auna), 31 grandchildren, and his brother, Wayne (Susan).

The viewing is Friday night, August 28, at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 N. Main Street, Bountiful, from 6 to 8.

The funeral is Saturday, August 29, at The North Salt Lake Stake Center, 900 Eaglepointe Drive, at 11 AM.  Please be seated before 10:45.