Mar. 1930 – Nov. 2018
Gwendolyn “Gwen” passed away peacefully November 24th. Gwen was born in March of 1930 in Chico, California to parents Dolpha and Lulu Crane. She attended Fresno State as a music major and Chico State where she obtained her teaching credential.
Gwen’s passion for education is reflected in her 40 years of teaching. Her career began in 1952 at Modesto’s Wilson Elementary and took her to Ballico and Turlock’s Crowell schools. Even into retirement, she volunteered her time assisting with classroom needs in the Ballico-Cressey school district.
She enjoyed family, country life, her pets and music. But closest to her heart were her grandchildren. Gwen was a member of the Cortez Presbyterian Church for many years and was active in the community of Ballico.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 61 years, Lowell. Gwen is survived by her children David Hillerman, Mark Hillerman and Janet (Hillerman) Passarino, four grandchildren and one great grandchild.
A Funeral with Reception will take place at 1 PM on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at Allen Mortuary. Private interment will take place at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery.
Please share your memories at www.AllenMortuary.com.
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Mikala Baba says
December 14, 2018 at 9:08 pm“Miss Crane” was my third grade teacher at Wilson School many, many years ago. We all loved sweet Miss Crane very much. We were very excited when we found out that she was going to get married! Fast forward to the 1980’s and I had moved to Ballico after marrying Frank Baba. I was at some event or other and ended up talking to Gwen Hillerman at Ballico Park. It didn’t take us long to discover that she was my “Miss Crane”! I have since discovered that she was one of the most beloved members of this community and I can certainly see why. She always presented a smile and a helping hand. She was friendly and easy to talk to and I know everyone felt good in her presence. She was a gift to this community. My condolences to the family.
Ranae Carlson Hedges says
December 14, 2018 at 7:12 pmGwen was my kindergarten teacher at Crowell School in Turlock CA in 1971. She was a lovely women with a heart for education & children. She made an impact that will last for a very long time. My sympathies to her family during this difficult time.
Larry Severance says
December 12, 2018 at 4:54 pmMy cousin Gwen was always very close to my Mom, Betty Willems. She and Gwen knew each other as young girls and throughout their lives. Their Moms were sisters. There was mutual admiration and respect in addition to the close family relationship. Gwen was always warm toward me and I appreciated her cheerful spirit. I wish the family peace in her passing.
Jen Waterson says
December 10, 2018 at 8:22 pmI have fond memories of Mrs. Hillerman. She was a kind, thoughtful and lovely lady. One of my favorite memories was when I returned to kindergarten after a short illness Mrs. Hillerman touched my heart. She gave me a holiday treat that she had saved while I was not able to go to school. I loved her class! May God continue to bless Mrs. Hillerman and her family.