James M. “Mike” Hillard, 73, of Galena, IL, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Big Meadows Nursing Home in Savanna, IL. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call from 9 AM until the time of Mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Mike was born on December 15, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, to James P. and Joanne (Piquette) Hillard. He graduated from Galena High School in 1970. Mike went on to attend the University of Platteville. He married Marianne Stovall on November 4, 1972, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Mike was the proud owner and chairman of the board of Tri-State Travel, and, outside of his family, that role was his entire life.

His greatest passion was golf, golf, and more golf; he prided himself on playing at many of the world’s most prestigious golf courses. His family hopes that he has been reunited with his best buddy, John Osmanski, and that they enjoy a round of golf, a cold beer, and a fine cigar together. Mike was a member of Galena Elks Lodge #882 and a founding member of the Galena Rotary Club in 1984. He also served on the boards of three banks: 1st National, Today’s Bank, and DB&T.

He is survived by his wife, Marianne; his daughter, Aimee (Dr. Jeffrey) Hicks of Spring Grove, IL; and his son, Andrew (Amanda) Hillard of Galena. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren, whom he affectionately called his “pills”: Harrison, Ashton, and Julia Hicks, and Grace, Ava, and Olivia Hillard. He is also survived by three sisters: Patricia Hillard of Coralville, IA; Kimberlee (Jeff) DeWall of Galena; and Ann (Terry) Fleege of Colorado Springs, CO. Additionally, he leaves behind one brother, Mark (Donna) Hillard of Dubuque, IA; a brother-in-law, John Stovall of Freeport, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Robert and Camilla Stovall, and a brother-in-law, James Stovall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Mike.

The family wishes to extend a special thank-you to Dr. Woods, the nurses and staff of Big Meadows Nursing Home, and Hospice of Freeport for their exceptional care and compassion, which will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com