John Michael Hilton Sr.

John Michael Hilton, Sr., age 74, of Portage, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2026. He was born on October 27, 1951, in Gary, Indiana, to the late James and Rose Hilton.John dedicated many years of his career as a maintenance supervisor for Inland Steel. Outside of work, he was a talented musician who enjoyed playing guitar in several classic rock bands. He had a deep passion for cars and especially loved working on his cherished 1961 Studebaker Lark. John also enjoyed fishing and remained active playing ice hockey until the age of 63. He found great fulfillment in giving back to others through his volunteer work with the USO.

John is survived by his partner, Karen Williams; his son, John Michael Hilton, Jr.; his daughter, Frances Rose Hilton; four granddaughters, Madison, Mia, Katie, and Lily Hilton; and his great-grandson, Mason. He is also survived by his brothers, Tommy (Leslie) Hilton, Terry (Diane) Hilton, and Jeff (Heather) Hilton; his sisters, Nora (Jim) Henderson, Andrea Hilton, and Paula Hilton; his goddaughter, Keri Nelson; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rose Hilton; his son, Matthew Hilton; his brother, James Hilton; and his sisters, Mary Ann Naccarato and Catherine Thoits.

Memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to the Dunes Hospice Foundation, 4711 Evans Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383 or the ALS United, 5315 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60640.

Memorial visitation for John will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. A memorial service will take place at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.