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Fred Henry Hilmes, 85, of Ness City, Kansas, passed away on June 18, 2026, at Cedar Village Care Center in Ness City. He was born on October 3, 1940, in Ransom, Kansas, to Henry and Armilla (Luetters) Hilmes.

Fred graduated from Ransom High School in 1958 and attended Fort Hays State University for one year. He then returned to Ness County, where he worked as an auto mechanic before beginning a career in the auto parts business. On February 9, 1963, he married the love of his life, Gladys Reinert, in Ness City.

In 1984, Fred and Gladys purchased Circle K Auto Parts and proudly operated the business for 23 years until their retirement. Never one to sit idle, Fred later worked in carpentry with Rod Borger until declining health made it necessary for him to step away. He was a member of Sacred Heart Church and the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed umpiring softball games, bowling, fishing, and making wood crafts. He liked watching various sports and was a faithful KU and Chiefs fan. He was known for his vegetable garden and enjoyed sharing cucumbers and tomatoes with family and friends.

Fred is survived by his wife of 63 years, Gladys Hilmes of the home; two daughters, Carleen Porter and her husband, Jim, of Ulysses, and Tresa Huffman and her husband, Ken, of Ness City; and one sister, Karen Interman and her husband, Larry, of Wilroads Gardens.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Larry, Dan, Donald, Kenny, and Alan Hilmes; and one sister, Sandra Hilmes.

Memorial services will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. followed by burial in the St. Aloysius Cemetery, Ransom, Kansas.

Memorial Contributions may be given to Cedar Village, Ness City.

Condolences and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guestbook.