Dr. Robert R.J. Hilker, 94, of Vero Beach, died Sunday Aug. 28, 2011, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 17, 1916 in Paullina, Iowa and had been a resident of Vero Beach for 15 years, coming from Savannah, Ga.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Navy.
Dr. Hilker attended Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa and received his business degree and medical degree from Northwestern University.
He got his M.D. in 1951, and eventually a fellowship in Cardiology at Chicago Wesley Memorial Hospital, NU Medical School, where he became an associate professor, doing research in hypertension and catherization.
He was a pioneer in the present-day wellness programs and eventually was elected president of the American Occupational Medical Association.
Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Mary, of Vero Beach.
At the request of the family, there will be no services.
Dr. Hilker’s ashes will be scattered at sea by the U.S. Navy.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach.
Condolences may be made at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.
