Lawrence G. Hillman

Conneaut Lake Lawrence George Hillman Jr., 70, passed on early Friday morning in Cleveland University Hospital, after a short illness. Larry was born in Warren, Ohio to Lawrence and Rumina Hillman. The Hillmans owned, operated and lived on the family farm in Bristolville, Ohio where Larry grew up with a fondness of animals, an appreciation for horses, classy cars, music and a great love of having fun. Larry remained close to his family, friends and school mates his entire life. Larry was a proud member of the USAF from 1964 to 1970, trained in Fort Hood Texas and then stationed in Minot ND. It was in Dakota where he met his wife, Florence. Larry moved his new wife back to Ohio where they welcomed the birth of their son, Michael Lawrence. Larry worked at Peerless Winsmith, formerly H.K. Porter, for over 30 years as a computer programmer and labor leader. Larry took his work home with him when the personal computer became prevalent and shared that love of technology with his son. Larry also shared his great passion for flying with his son. With a great deal of respect and envy, Michael proudly followed in his father's footprints to achieve his pilot's license. The two enjoyed flying together in many different aircraft over the years. Larry was an avid boater his entire life and owned his last two boats on Conneaut Lake in PA. Always wanting to be like dad, Michael also became a boater. In 1992 Larry and Florence were divorced but remained close friends. In 1993 Larry met Sandy Darrin of Conneaut Lake PA during a skating event a hobby they both loved and shared. Sandy brought Larry an extraordinary happiness and friendship. They were engaged to be married and remained together until his passing. Sandy and Larry spent many hours enjoying their boats on Conneaut and often ate their meals together on the lake. Larry's quick wit and zest for life made him a popular guy, especially with his family. Larry leaves, too early, his son Michael (and Marie) Hillman of Cortland, his grandson Joseph Michael, his fianc Sandy Darrin of Conneaut Lake, his sister Penny (and Jerry) Callahan of Cortland, his Brother Edward (and Clora) Hillman of Bristolville and his brother Thomas (and Marlene) of Bristolville. Friends can call from 5 to 7 Friday at Shafer Winans Funeral Home, Cortland OH. There will be a graveside memorial service on Saturday at Sager Memorial Cemetery at 11:30. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Larry's name to "Putting Downs First Inc, P.O. Box 81, Southington, OH 44470" or to the "Fairhaven Foundation, 45 North Rd, Niles, Ohio 44446".