Posted on February 9, 2026
In remembrance of Richard Ralph Hildenbrand, Vietnam War Army Veteran.
Rich was a pillar of his community, a 2024 Carol Stream Citizen of the Year nominee, a key player in fundraising efforts to build the Veterans Memorial Plaza at Town Center, an active member of Carol Stream’s VFW Post #10396 for over 20 years, and a commander at VFW since 2020. Rich spent his Wednesdays volunteering with fellow Veterans at the DuPage Convalescent Center. Service was important to Rich and these were just a few of the great many ways he served.
Rich served in the U.S Army during the Vietnam War as a Communications Specialist.
Rich was born August 25, 1949. He graduated from Holy Cross High School (River Grove). Rich married his beloved wife Emily in 1986, becoming stepfather to her daughter Angel before having their daughters Mariel and Krista. Rich took great pride in being a grandfather to Angel’s children, Stephan and Michael – both of whom joined the military and were awarded for their exemplary service. Nine years ago he became a grandfather to a granddaughter, Rosie.
Rich was a good man who was passionate about his family and his service. We were honored to work closely with him and grateful for the dedication he brought to everything he did. He has a Memorial Brick at the Veterans Memorial Plaza, Carol Stream.
