HILBORN, Mary Elizabeth

1921 – 2017 

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Mary in her 96th year, on September 1, 2017. 

Born in 1921, Mary lived her early life in Preston (Cambridge), Ontario. She was the daughter of the late Frank Pattinson and the late Jennie Pattinson. She was predeceased by her sister Alice (Brohman). 

During WWII, Mary faithfully served her country in the Royal Canadian Navy as a WREN decoder of naval signals at Atlantic Command in Halifax. In 1947, she married the late Colonel Robert Hilborn LVO, MBE, CD, and enjoyed 60 years of marriage while raising two sons, David and Lynn. 

In her late years, Mary enjoyed the company of the staff and friends at Riverside Glen Long Term Care in Guelph. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Riverside Glen for the abiding care and companionship they provided for Mary and Bob. The staff and the entire management team at Riverside Glen were of immeasurable support to the family. Their high standard of care is a credit to the honourable profession and gift of care giving. 

The family also wants to express appreciation for the pastoral care given by Pastor Mark Cudney. The advice, friendship and spiritual support given by Mark were, in all respects, a pillar of strength for both Bob and Mary. 

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by son David, son Lynn and his wife Margaret; granddaughter Katherine (Avery) and her husband Carey and great-granddaughters Tess and Gemma, granddaughter Jennifer Hilborn and her partner Barry and great-grandson Oscar, and grandson Robert Scott Hilborn and his wife Martha. 

The family will be holding a private service. Donations of remembrance may be made to a charity of your choice.