Russell Alan Hildebrandt

Russell Alan Hildebrandt, 60, of Lafayette, IN, passed away on September 11, 2023. He was born April 18, 1963 in Gary and lived in northwest Indiana for many decades before relocating. Sometimes known as Rusty or Ralph, Russ was a 1981 graduate of Lew Wallace High School and maintained contact with many of his childhood friends throughout his life. Russ was well-known for his exceptional cooking skills and savored chances to share his love and appreciation for friends and family by cooking meals for them. He often could be found tending to his gardens, happy to share the fruits of his labor with others. Coming from a large family, Russ ensured he had continued relationships with family both near and far. He also spear-headed regular extended family dinners to ensure those connections extended beyond him. Russ was a devout Catholic and regularly attended St. Joan of Arc in Merrillville along with other churches in the area. He often turned to Father Andy Corona and deeply appreciated the support he offered over the years. Russ leaves behind his uncle Ritchie Mathews; aunt Genny Mathews; sister Diane of Arizona, his brother Larry of Michigan; nieces Tessa Maguire and Amanda (Brad) Terry; nephews Ahren, Jason, Kyle and Eric (Stacey) Berry; great nephew Aidric Berry; great nieces Julianna and Briella Terry; and countless cousins He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Mary Lou; brother Paul; and sister Martha Berry; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins he held dear. Visitation and memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 in the hall at Protection of the Virgin Mary, 8600 Grand Blvd, Merrillville from 3-6 p.m. Those wishing to pay their respects and share memories may stop by at any time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your local animal shelter or the ASPCA.  Arrangements entrusted to Comfort Cremations, 674 N. 36th St., Lafayette, IN 47905, (866) U-R-Loved  www.comfortcremations.net