James "Jim" Douglas Hillje passed away August 5, 2022. He was born on September 14, 1947, in Cotulla, Texas at Myers Hospital to Fred and Tillie Hillje.

Jim was born and raised on The Hillje Ranch, 20 miles southeast of Cotulla from which he never ventured far. Little Jimmy was the youngest of six and he learned to rope, ride, brand, hunt, and garden alongside his dad and brothers. He was known by many names – Dad, Pops, Hillje, El Coyote, Jimbo, Jim, Jimmy, Jimmy Jo, Jaime Jose but mostly just Hillje.

Jim began his career in 1969 with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department from which he retired in 2001. He continued his passion for nature and wildlife by managing many ranches in La Salle County and surrounding counties.

Jim was loved by all who knew him and will be missed greatly. His smile and infectious laugh were some of his signature trademarks. His easy going demeanor made him a joy to be around. He loved spending time with family and friends, but especially loved watching his grandchildren grow and mature. He was an excellent cook who never needed to measure ingredients. He was also an incredible handyman with the ability to fix anything with some baling wire and duct tape.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Tillie Hillje, and his brothers, Jud and Freddy. He is survived by his wife, Lori "Honey" Hillje, daughter, K'Reesa "Sis" (Jimmy) Coley, of Canyon Lake, Texas: son, Jeremy (Kristi) Hillje of Weimar, Texas; grandchildren, Carlisle Coley, Hannah Hillje and Hudson Hillje; sisters, Margaret Ann Strickhausen, Mary Jo Choate, and Agnes Fulbright; sisters in law, Peggy and Kay Hillje: and numerous nieces and nephews and many, many friends.

The family will be receiving guests at 10:30 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held August 13, 2022, at the Alexander Convention Center in Cotulla, Tx. starting at 11:00 a.m. Please dress casually. We will share stories and provide lunch. The family would like to extend a very special thanks to Dr. Clark Kardys; the ICU nurses at Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital & Natanya Cooper. The loving care that these compassionate people provided will be forever remembered.