Elisabeth Hillman

Elisabeth Hillman, 83, of LaGrange, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Parkview LaGrange Hospital in LaGrange, IN.

Elisabeth was born on May 21, 1942, in Germany. After completing grade school, she continued her education and earned both her certification and degree in Culinary Arts in Germany. On May 24, 1966, she married the love of her life, American soldier James Eugene Hillman, in Frankfurt, Germany.

Elisabeth devoted her life to hospitality and service through her passion for cooking. For 20 years, she managed and operated the LaGrange County Country Club. From 1980 to 1985, she owned and operated Liesel’s Gast Stube in LaGrange. She later worked for 23 years at the Golden Buddha on the Indiana-Michigan border, where she served guests and assisted in many roles throughout the restaurant.

A highly skilled chef, Elisabeth found great joy in preparing meals for others. She especially loved baking cakes and catering weddings. In her free time, she enjoyed knitting and reading. Elisabeth was known for her kind spirit, good nature, and ability to get along with everyone. Above all, she deeply loved her family.

Survivors include:

Spouse, James Hillman.

Daughter, Andrea and Henry James Repeta.

Daughter, Yvonne Hillman.

Son, Mark Hillman.

Grandchildren, Ellen (Matthew) Casciani, Nick (Cassie) Hillman, Zach Hillman, and Alexandria Hillman.

Great-grandchildren, Poppy, Claire, Bentley, Amelia, Jaxxon, and Luka.

Also surviving are a host of cousins.

Elisabeth was preceded in death by her brother, Heinz Nitsch.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11:30am with visitation for the public from 10:30am-11:30am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 50 North 100 East, LaGrange, IN 46761.

Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery following the funeral mass.

Officiating the services will be Fr. Raul Marroquin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the family for final expenses.

Arrangements and final care entrusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Fort Wayne, IN.