October 13, 1933 - March 14, 2021
HILBY, Leslie Leslie “Les” Hilby, a longtime resident of Liberty Lake, passed away on March 14, 2021 at the age of 87. Les was born in Spokane on October 13, 1933 to John and Agnes Hilby. Les graduated from John R. Rogers High School and gave back to his alma mater in many ways including by joining others in the JRRAFF program raising funds for current students and programs. After graduation, Les attended Washington State University and joined Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He was active in the WSU golf program, earning his Grey W letter. He remained a lifelong Cougar fan and supporter. Upon graduation, Les was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the Army and began a career that would last 24 years. His military service took him all over the world, including two tours in Viet Nam, as well as many overseas and stateside posts. He retired as a Lt. Col. and Battalion Commander of the 501st Signal Battalion, Ft. Campbell, KY. Among his many medals and citations, he received The Legion of Merit, Army Commendation Medal, 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Bronze Star with “V” device, 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster. Golf was a true passion for Les. He once made the goal of golfing on every continent and only fell short of that goal by two, Africa and Antarctica. It has been said that he had the uncanny ability to remember every golf course he played from St. Andrews in Scotland to Pebble Beach in California. Although he played at many courses, he was well known and loved at the Liberty Lake Golf Course where he was a founding member of the Liberty Lake Men’s Club. Les embodied the phrase “Family First”. Whether it was numerous road trips, cruises, golf outings or playing Yahtzee at the family lake house, many wonderful memories were made. He will always be remembered for his infectious smile, and a warm inviting nature that made everyone feel like family. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 48 years, Meredith “Molly”, and his children Lorie (Dan) Kalosky, Lisa Hastings, and Jeff Hilby. He also had two granddaughters, Jillian (Jim Godbout) Kalosky and Caitlin (Kevin) Hess. The family is forever grateful to the staff at Guardian Angel Homes of Liberty Lake for their loving care and compassion and to Hospice of Spokane for their care in his final days. Graveside services will be held on April 7, 2021 at 12:30 at the Pines Cemetery, 1402 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley. A celebration of life is planned for May. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the PGA Junior Golf League, c/o Liberty Lake Golf Course, 24403 E. Sprague, Liberty Lake, WA 99019, or to the charity of your choice.
