Shirley Hiltner

Shirley A. Hiltner, age 81 of Melrose, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, January 2, 2026 at the Cura Care Center in Melrose, Minnesota.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. A private inurnment will be held at Morningside Memorial Gardens in Coon Rapids.

Shirley Ann Bueckers was born September 14, 1944 in Albany Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Herman and Armella (Roehrl) Bueckers. She was united in marriage to Roger Hiltner on June 28, 1965 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. Shirley was known for her compassion and selflessness. She cherished time spent traveling and camping with her family and friends, and took immense pride in her great-grandson, Coby. Shirley made a lasting impact on many lives, reaching far beyond her own family.

Survivors include her son, Brian (Jackie) Hiltner of Coon Rapids; grandchildren, Dillon Hiltner of Blaine and Chelsea Hiltner of Rochester; great-grandson, Coby Hiltner; brothers and sisters, Mary Evens of Albany, Bernard (Diane) Bueckers of Albany, Patty (Mike) Marthaler of Talmoon, Mike (Rita) Bueckers of Avon, Geri (Steve) Hanson of St. Cloud, Fran (Debbie) Bueckers of St. Cloud, Norbert (Janet) Bueckers of Cushing, John Bueckers of Staples, and Richard Bueckers of Koochiching County; brother-in-law, Jim Rademacher of Melrose; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends, especially Ervin Bueckers and family.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger Hiltner; parents; sister, Juliann “Julie” Rademacher; and brother-in-law, Buddy Evens.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of Shirley.