Donald Lee Hillebrand

Donald Lee Hillebrand passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, March 16th, 2026 at the age of 82. He was born on August 24th, 1943 in McKees Rocks, PA. Don was the son of the late Frank and Sarah Hillebrand. He shared more than 57 loving years of marriage with his late wife, Jill Ann Hillebrand, who are now reunited in heaven. Don is survived by his five sons: Timothy (Ami) Hillebrand, Terrence (Kerri) Hillebrand, Matthew (Kelly) Hillebrand, Jason (Renee) Hillebrand, Nicholas (Emily) Hillebrand; grandfather of Molly, Tyler (KerriAnn), Michael, Lucas, Lilly, Austin, Kaitlyn, Ryan, Addison, Cooper, Lauren, Carson and Mason; beloved brother-in law to Jackie McCoy-Kohler; uncle to Rachel (Fred) Hoffman, Jeffery (Michelle) McCoy, Shannon (Tony) Nuccetelli, Charles (Gayle) Holmes, Debbie (Ben) Hernandez, Kim (Mike) Fuller, and Jeffrey Holmes; also survived by many great nieces and nephews.

Don and his beloved wife Jill together founded Don’s Appliances in April 1971, beginning a journey that would become a lasting legacy for their family and community. Though he remained humble throughout his life, Don’s story was one of quiet determination and perseverance. His path began in the early 1960s when he walked into a Maytag store with a help wanted sign in the window seeking an opportunity. A few years later, he made the decision to start his own business laying the foundation for what Don’s Appliances would become. Today, Don’s Appliances spans 12 locations and employs more than 180 people, serving customers throughout the Western, PA and into West Virginia. Don often credited the company’s success to a simple philosophy: putting the customer first. True to his modest nature, he believed he could only take the business so far, and that it was his sons who helped elevate it to new heights.

Don loved spending his weekends aboard his boat, the “Agitator.” The name, which brought a smile to many, was said by some to reflect his roots in the appliance business, while others knew he was always ready to stir things up. He enjoyed traveling, cruising, playing the slot machines in Las Vegas and was a devoted member of Saint Anne’s Parish for more than 50 years. He took immense pride in his family and especially cherished watching his thirteen grandchildren grow up. Don could often be found on the sidelines at football games, soccer matches, and countless other activities, supporting and encouraging them in all they pursued. He especially loved his wife Jill’s homemade potato pancakes, a favorite tradition that will be carried on for years to come.

Family and friends are welcome Saturday, March 21st, 2026 from 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM and Sunday, March 22nd, 2026 from 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, 724-260-5546. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 23rd, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Paul the Cross (St. Anne’s) Church, 400 Hoodridge Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 and burial at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Rd, Coraopolis, PA 15108. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.