Stephen Curtis Hilligoss, 70, passed away in Anderson, IN, on Tuesday, July 16, 2019. Steve was born on February 15, 1949 in Anderson to Vearl Curtis Hilligoss, and Virginia “Ginger” Wheat. A life-long resident of Anderson, he attended Anderson High School. He is preceded in death by his father; daughter Claire Ellis and son, Christopher Ellis.
In 1967, Steve proudly began service with the U.S. Army and completed basic training at Fort Campbell, KY. After advanced training at Ft. Benning, GA, he began a tour of duty in Vietnam with the 196th Light Infantry. In January 1968, he stepped on a landmine near Da Nang and lost both feet. After a year of recuperation at Valley Forge Army Hospital in Pennsylvania, he retired from the Army and returned to Anderson. He most loved his children, dogs, motorcycles, corvettes and all his wives. He was a life time member of VFW, American Legion, 40/8 and a founding father of Vietnam Vet M. C.
He is survived by his mother, Virginia "Ginger" Hilligoss; brother David Hilligoss, Farmington, MI; daughters Jennifer Hilligoss-Shaul (Steve), Trafalgar; Brandi Hilligoss-Garrett (Andrew), Middletown; son, Curtis Hilligoss, Union, KY; eight grandchildren Andrew Halila, Rachael Harless, Kasey Halila, Katelyn Hilligoss, Madelyn Hilligoss, Nathaniel Shaul, Zachary Shaul; Eli Hilligoss; and great grandson, Noah DeFord.
A graveside service will be 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at Anderson Memorial Park, Anderson with Pastor Ned Clark officiating. Military rites will be conducted. A celebration of Life will follow at Veterans of Madison County, 3607 East 10th Street; Anderson.
Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service handled the funeral arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Disabled American Veterans or Ronald McDonald House.
Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com