Rockport, MA — With her family at her bedside, Doris A. Hillier, wife of the late Pingree F. “Bib” Hillier, died peacefully in the early evening of December 24 at her home in Pigeon Cove, where she had lived for 66 years. She was born on January 2, 1916, in Pigeon Cove, to the late Charles W. and Wilhelmina “Minnie” (Niskanen) Nelson. Her father’s ancestral name was Pinola but when her grandfather arrived at Ellis Island from Finland it was changed to Nelson. The family lovingly joked that Doris lived to 96 because she was a “stubborn, full-blooded Finn”. Doris graduated from Rockport High School in 1933, and attended Salem Normal School.
Before his death in 1983, Bib and Doris had traveled abroad, but one trip was enough for him. From then on, she traveled alone or with friends. Among her favorite spots were the Greek Isles and Brazil. And every summer, after a good hose-down, Bib’s lobster boat became a “pleasure” craft for trips to the Isle of Shoals with family and friends, and were the times that she treasured. Trips to Nova Scotia, either by road or ferry, and sometimes with Fred’s boys, were also great fun for her and Bib.
Doris was a loving and generous “Meme” to her 2 children, 8 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Fred C. Hiller and four of his six children: Craig R. Hillier, Rebecca L. Chane (wife of Ronald), Pingree F. Hillier II, and Michael L. Hillier; her daughter, Cynthia E. Hinckley (wife of Kenneth) and her children Holly E. (Irvin) Mason and William G. Irvin, Jr. (husband of Fleur).
In addition, she leaves her niece and faithful caregiver, Christine E. (Nelson) Robertson (wife of George), and her nephew, Charles R. Nelson (husband of Kathy). The family is grateful to Karen Hillier for her guidance in Doris’s care and for the many special meals she provided her.
She was predeceased by her brother, Charles H. Nelson (husband of Mary), and grandchildren Christine A. (Hillier) Prince and Matthew A. Hillier.
ARRANGEMENTS: A private, graveside service will be held at a later date. Should anyone wish to donate to a charity in her name, Doris’s two favorites were the Cape Ann Animal Aid and the Salvation Army.
Funeral arrangements are by the Burgess and Mackey Funeral Home, 201 Main Street, Rockport, MA.
Online condolences may be given at www.burgessandmackey.com
