LeRoy Dean Hilligas

LeRoy Dean Hilligas

Brooklyn

LeRoy Dean Hilligas, age 64, of Brooklyn, IA, passed away Saturday, November 29, 2025, at his home in Brooklyn. He will be remembered for his quiet nature, warm presence and the sincere way he cared for those around him.

LeRoy was born on July 14, 1961, in Grinnell, IA, to Richard and Patricia Lindner Hilligas. He was raised in Brooklyn and attended BGM High School. He was a dedicated employee for Magna International for 30 years, retiring in fall 2024 as a forklift driver.

LeRoy spent his entire life in Brooklyn; a community he was proud to call home. One of his greatest joys was visiting his mother's family farm in Keokuk, IA. Those trips treasured parts of his life, moments filled with familiar fields, warm memories, and the comfort of family connections. He enjoyed family visits and good company, and his calm presence and genuine spirit will be dearly missed.

LeRoy is survived by his uncles and aunts; Donald (Peggy) Hilligas, of Brooklyn, IA, Sandra Stratton, of Marengo, IA, Lois (Dan) Braun, of Mt. Pleasant, IA, Roger (Janice) Lindner, of Keokuk, IA, Arlene (Stanley) Small, of McKinney, TX, and Ardeth (Lloyd) Plum, of Spokane, WA; and many cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father Richard Hilligas in 2005; his mother, Patricia Hilligas in 2022; grandparents, Wilbur E. and Wilma E. Branson Lindner, and Charles and Helen Hilligas; and aunt, Judith Hendrickson.

A private graveside service will be held at Brooklyn Memorial Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions may be designated to Camp Courageous. Memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 342, Brooklyn, IA 52211.

The family encourages others to remember LeRoy in the simple, heartfelt ways he cherished. May he rest in peace.