ROBERT JAMES HILL

BRISTOL — Robert James Hill of Bristol passed away peacefully on Dec. 16, 2023, after a life well-lived. Robert was born on Oct. 8, 1936. He was raised in Williston, Vt., on his family’s dairy farm.

On April 19, 1963, he married his wife, Jeanette (Warren) and continued farming in Williston, where they welcomed three children. A barn fire prompted Robert and Jeanette to move their operation to Bristol, Vt., in 1971. Soon after the move they welcomed their youngest child, prompting the formal farm name, and prefix, “Four-Hills Farm.”

In addition to their small dairy herd, Robert purchased registered cattle for his children to show in 4-H. He believed in promoting future generations of youth to be involved in agriculture. His investment in fostering youth in agriculture paid off, he was able to spend his life working side by side with his children and his grandchildren on the farm. Robert’s strong work ethic was the foundation for his land stewardship, business sense, and animal husbandry, which allowed the farm to grow and sustain multiple generations, who are now continuing his legacy.

Robert is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jeanette; their four children, Ronald, Joanne (Dan), Brian (Chanin), and Kevin (Amy); six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Britney (Cody), Megan, Bradley, Johnny and Sarah; one great-grandson, Greyson; and many loving nieces and nephews. Robert is predeceased by his parents and siblings.

A celebration of life will be held at the Vergennes Eagles Club at 67 New Haven Road, Vergennes, Vt., on Sunday, Jan. 7, from 1-4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Robert’s name to Elderly Services Inc., 112 Exchange Street Middlebury, VT 05753, or Addison County 4-H Foundation, 23 Pond Lane Suite 300, Middlebury, VT 05753

The family would like to thank Brian and Sheila at Evergreen, Elderly Services Inc in Middlebury, Carlene and Donna for their dedicated care and support of Robert.◊