James R. Hilbert Jr. ’82

Jim Hilbert died unexpectedly at his home June 1, 2005.

Born and raised in East Lansing, Mich., Jim came to Princeton as a promising football player and track athlete. Classmates remember a boisterous and engaging character. As a friend, Jim was loyal and affectionate; as a competitor, he was tenacious. In 1985, Jim obtained a law degree from Thomas Cooley School of Law in Lansing, graduating third in his class. While in law school, he clerked for the Michigan attorney general.

After school Jim practiced as a member of the Army Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps. Electing to stay in the Army Reserve, he held the rank of lieutenant colonel at the time of his death. From 1991 to 1994 he was a federal prosecutor in the Tampa Civil Division. He then developed an extensive trial practice in negligence and personal injury, including numerous actions against the federal government. Jim maintained his passion for physical fitness and sports throughout his life.

He is survived by daughters Chrissy and Caroline; his mother, Virginia Hilbert; brother Doug; and sisters Jennifer and Alex. The class extends its condolences to them and to Jim's many friends.

Donations in Jim's memory may be made to the Sparrow Foundation in Lansing (www.sparrowfoundation.org).

The Class of 1982