Albert H. Hiilsmeier, 96, of Cherokee, Texas, passed away Wednesday, October 24, 2012, in Temple, Texas. He was born March 6, 1916 in Cherokee, the son of Alberthina Poehler Hiilsmeier and Herman Hiilsmeier. He began his career in cattle ranching as a young man, before being inducted into the United States Army, August 26, 1942. He trained at Camp Howze and left for the European Theater March 6, 1945. Albert served with the Medical detachment and the Signal Service Company. He was discharged from service April 6, 1946, with the rank of technician, fifth grade. Albert and Catherine Epperson were married 59 years before her death in 2006. There were two children born to this union, a son and a daughter, Don and Cathy. Albert was a lifetime member of the Cherokee Church of Christ and served as Deacon for many years. He continued his ranching career, spending a lifetime supporting his family. As the years passed by, Catherine became more active in assisting him with the ranch, accompanying Albert to cattle auctions and helping with the daily responsibilities.He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Don and Debbie Hiilsmeier of Hico and his daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Roy Jones of San Saba; five granddaughters; two great-granddaughters; one great-grandson; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine Epperson Hiilsmeier and numerous brothers and sisters.Funeral services were held Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 10:00 A.M. at the Cherokee Church of Christ with Doug Suggs officiating. Interment followed at the Kuykendall Cemetery. The family received friends Friday, October 26, 2012, 5:00-6:30 P.M. at the Blaylock Funeral Chapel, 1205 South High, San Saba, TX. The family requests that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Cherokee Children’s Home.Arrangements under the direction of the Blaylock Funeral Chapel, 1205 South High, San Saba, TX 76877, 325-372- 1114. www.blaylockfuneralhome.com