Norman Arthur Hilscher, age 90, passed away at his home in Oak Harbor, Washington, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, his wife and daughter were with him.
Norman was born on November 15, 1935 to Gustave and Ferne HIlscher in Kulm, ND. He graduated from Timber Echo High School in Sweet Home, OR, in 1954 and enlisted in the United States Navy in August of that year. His first enlistment lasted 4 years, after his honorable discharge, he moved to Seattle to work for Boeing Corporation for 4 years. In 1958, he re-enlisted in the United States Navy in the TAR program. He served a total and 24 years, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer in 1978 and was very proud of his service, as is his family. As a civilian, he worked in several different places until he was hired by the Civil Service to work at the NAS Whidbey Island Hospital. He retired in 2000.
Norman married Barbara Barnett in 1970, they just recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. Barbara and their daughter, Dalene accompanied him to his many duty stations, including Moffet Field, CA, Pax River, MD and Willow Grove, PA. When asked, he would tell everyone that his favorite assignment was as a Flight Engineer on the P3 aircraft.
His favorite pastime was fishing and he loved to fish on Pass Lake on Fidalgo Island or anywhere there were fish. He and Barbara have been very active in Life Church since 1987. Norm served in many capacities from being involved in the construction of the current sanctuary, grounds maintenance, helping with the annual Harvest parties, and as an usher. He loved the Lord with all of his heart and God remained his strength for all of his days.
In his retirement, he and Barbara enjoyed traveling with their good friends, Bob & Betty Burke and Norm and Dottie Austin. They also went on adventures in their motor home visiting family and friends. All of his friends got to enjoy his quirky sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife Barbra(Oak Harbor). Three daughters, Dalene Davis (Oak Harbor), Kimberly Dundon(Reno, NV) and Marlene Hilscher(San Marcos, CA) Six grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. A brother Dennis Hilscher(Burley, ID) and a sister Patsy Hilscher(Portland, OR).
Services will be held on Friday, January 23rd at 2 pm at the Wallin-Stucky funeral home, 1811 NE 16th Ave, Oak Harbor.
