Brian Ralph Hills, 65, passed away on Tuesday (May 31, 2022) at home.
Mr. Hills was born on September 29, 1956 in Wellsville to Ralph E. and Geraldine “Geri” (Smith) Hills. He graduated from Wellsville Central School in 1974 and later served in the United States Army. During his time in the service while stationed in West Germany, he took part in Radio Free Europe, a broadcast station aimed at beaming a radio news signal into the USSR during the days of the Cold War. While in the service, he studied culinary arts in the U.S. and West Germany, utilizing his cooking skills at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif. as a staff sergeant.
Brian used his training as a cook in the Army for much of his working career. For many years he served as a cook at Beef Haus in Wellsville.
Brian is survived by a son, Dana E. Hills of Olean; a daughter, Stephanie D. (Darren Ngai) Hills of Apex, N.C.; a brother, Alan (Karla) Hills of Wellsville; two sisters, Janet O’Loughlin of Moreno Valley, Calif. and Carole Rich of Riverside, Calif.; four grandchildren, Elijah Hills, Brian Hills, Harlow Hills and Quinn Ngai; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Brian Ralph Hills, Jr.; one brother, Kevin Hills and one sister, Sheila Oliver.
Brian loved to travel. Beginning during his days in the military, he took every opportunity to tour various parts of Europe from his home base in West Germany. His love for road trips continued long after he left the service. It was during many of these trips his children fondly look back as their favorite memories. They enjoyed the many fishing and camping trips together which helped develop their own love for the great outdoors. Brian was a loving father and enjoyed making special memories with his children.
Brian developed many friends over the years. Most would describe him as very kind with a great sense of humor and always willing to help someone out. In his later years, he spent a considerable amount of time caring for his aging father.
There will be a Celebration of Life service on Sunday (June 5) at 4:00 p.m. at the Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Wellsville/Scio. Full military honors will be offered by the Wellsville American Legion Morrison Hayes Post #702 and the United States Army. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com. © 2022 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
