Darwin Hile Obituary

Darwin E. Hile

Darwin Eugene Hile, 88, of Findlay, passed away March 21, 2025, at the Ross Heart Center in Columbus. He was born September 25, 1936, in Findlay to parents John Clifford Hile and Annabel McRill Hile. His early childhood years were spent on a farm in Vanlue.

Darwin graduated from Findlay High School in 1954 and married Betty Eileen Smith on March 3, 1956.

His early work at a lumber company led him to open his own cabinet shop in their garage on Wilson Street. In the early 1960s, he worked for Dick Warren of Warren Construction, where he developed a love for building. In 1965, he started his own building company - Darwin E. Hile, Builder - specializing in home building and light commercial work. He operated that until he retired in 2000. Many beautiful homes in Findlay showcase his talent and craftsmanship. Betty was his business partner, and their two sons, Steve and Rod, worked with him for several years at the company as well. Darwin also served on the board of Blanchard Valley Supply for a number of years and was a member of Howard United Methodist Church in Findlay.

Darwin and Betty and their family enjoyed many years at Catawba Island, where he shared his love of fishing and boating on Lake Erie. Later, he developed a love for golf and enjoyed many rounds with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Betty; his sons, Steve (Rhonda) Hile and Rod Hile (Vicky Stine; and his beloved granddaughters, Stefanie (Brady) Schneider and Elizabeth (Ben) Essinger; and great-grandchildren, Sofia, Remy, Jordan and Natalee; as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Marlene Fletcher Fred Hile and Ellen Gillette; and infant grandson, Justin Hile.

Visitation will be from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2025, at COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME in Findlay. Funeral service will be at the conclusion of visitation at 2:30 p.m. Friday. Lay minister Marianne Higley will officiate and interment will follow at Knollcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers,donations can be made to Howard United Methodist Church in Findlay.

Online condolences are welcomed at www.coldrencrates.com.