July 26, 1949 - February 2, 2026
Corry, Pennsylvania | Age 76
Robert “Bob” W. Hill, 76, of Corry, PA died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the VA Community Living Center after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Bob was born July 26, 1949, at Fort Meade, Maryland to military parents, the late William O. Hill, Jr. and Lorraine E. (Alm) Hill. The family moved back home to Pennsylvania and Bob was raised on the family farm in Harborcreek, PA. He was a 1968 graduate of Harborcreek High School where he excelled in football and track, earning a scholarship to Clarion University.
Bob ultimately decided not to attend Clarion and instead chose to join the US Army where he qualified for and graduated from the elite U.S. Army Special Forces School. Bob earned his Green Beret and was immediately deployed to Vietnam for two combat tours. On April 1, 1970, Bob volunteered to board a Huey helicopter to Special Forces camp, Dak Seang, which was under attack by the North Vietnamese Army. At Dak Seang, Bob (then Sgt. Hill) rescued and saved Special Forces medic Gary Beikirch, who went on to the receive the Congressional Medal of Honor and eventually write a biography in 2020 called “Blaze of Light” where Bob's actions that day are highlighted. Gary often said that he was able to live, meet his wife, and have his family because of Bob. Bob was very proud of that mission and the fact that he was able to save Gary. The two Green Berets were fortunate to meet again and become close friends prior to Gary’s death in 2021.
Bob was wounded in combat many times and was awarded a purple heart, 2 bronze stars for Valor, the combat infantry badge, and several other medals. Bob was a highly knowledgeable and dedicated soldier for over twenty years as a Quiet Professional in the 5th, 7th and 11th Special Forces Groups. Bob loved his Special Forces teammates and his country dearly.
Bob worked for the U.S. Postal Service in several postal installations throughout Erie County for 37 years, befoe retiring in 2007. Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life, as well as true Pittsburgh Steelers’ fan and an amateur historian. He loved movies and books about the Old West. Bob traveled extensively during his military career and made sure to observe and enjoy historical places in Germany, England, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and many other countries. Bob also enjoyed traveling to Alaska for many vacations as well as taking an Alaskan cruise.
Bob served as commander of the Miliary Order of the Purple Heart Association for many years as well as being a life member. He was a 32nd degree Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, Shrine Temple, and a life member of the American Legion and V.F.W. in addition to multiple other organizations all dear to his heart.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents as well as his brothers William W. Hill and Joseph A. Hill. He is survived by his sister Suzanne Vrenna (Jack) of Ripley, NY and brothers Roger L. Hill and Michael T. Hill of Harborcreek, PA. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Rob Proper (Emily) and Dave Proper (Michelle) of Fairbanks, Alaska.
Bob is further survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Ruth (Proper) Hill of Corry, PA, his sons Robert W. Hill (Gina) of Girard, PA and Aaron C. Hill (Melanie) of North East, PA, his daughter, Bonnie K. DeNardo (Tony) of East Springfield, PA, stepson Jamie Proper of Corry, PA and niece Karlee Xander of Mississippi. Bob also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and two cats (his girls) Lilly and Rosie, all of whom he loved very much.
Bob will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date for friends and family to attend. The family would like to thank the amazing staff at the Community Living Center at the VA for their exceptional care during Bob’s stay there. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob’s name to Bracken Funeral Home and will be distributed among Bob’s favorite charities.
Arrangements are under the care of Bracken Funeral Home, Inc., 315 N. Center St, Corry, PA 16407.
To sign the guest book or send condolences, please visit www.brackenfh.com.
