Sheldon Milton Hilden, age 92, of River Falls, WI, passed away on Thursday, August 12, 2021 at Kinnic Health and Rehab. Sheldon was born July 9, 1929 north of Beldenville, WI, to Vernon and Pearl (Dopkins) Hilden. He grew up in the Trimbelle area, where he graduated from Prescott High School and the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Sheldon taught school in his home area and in the State of Montana, until he was drafted into the service. Sheldon proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Korean War Veteran.

Sheldon was united in marriage to Mary Catherine Guest on May 30, 1951, and they were blessed with five children: Virginia, Richard, Julie, Mark, and James.

Sheldon worked for Roen Ford in River Falls, retiring from there after many years of service. He was a 65-year member of the River Falls American Legion Post 121, serving proudly for 50 years as a member of the Honor Guard.

Sheldon enjoyed working on vehicles with his sons, deer hunting, fishing, gardening, reading, and was a Green Bay Packers fan.

Sheldon was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his parents, Vernon and Pearl Hilden; his son-in-law, Thomas Atsatt; and grandson, Adam Lundgaard. He was also preceded by his brother and sister in law, Wayne & Marleen Hilden; his sister and brother in law, Rosalie & Ernie Strand; and his brother-in-law, Robert Clausen.

Sheldon is survived by his five children, Virginia Lundgaard of River Falls, Richard (Mary Kay) Hilden of Hudson, Julie Atsatt of Ellsworth, Mark (Kristen) Hilden of River Falls, and James Hilden of Hammond; five grandchildren, Amy (Keegan) Iversen, Corey (Shelby) Hilden, Abbey (Nathan) Goers, Allison (Matt) Boumeester, and Katie Jo (Luke Dahler) Hilden; and eleven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Corrine Clausen; sisters-in-law, Lucille Guest and Donita Guest; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

To honor Sheldon’s wishes, a private family service will be held. Sheldon will be buried with full military honors provided by the River Falls American Legion Post 121. Greenwood Cemetery will be his final resting place. Memorials honoring Sheldon may be directed to the River Falls American Legion Post 121. Services entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of River Falls, WI. 715-425-5644