In the early hours of Saturday, November 14 with wife Michelle at his side, Hilton passed away peacefully, after being surrounded throughout his illness by the love of his children, Ayal, Tuval and Tamar, and his adored grandchildren.
With grace, humility and humour he spent the last days of his life able to look at his whole life with a peaceful and gentle gaze. He felt loved and cared for. He expressed love and gratitude for his friends, his family, for his colleagues and employees, the medical staff, and support staff at the hospital.
Hilton was creative, feisty, and courageous. He lived on 3 continents, raised chickens, was a volunteer medic, supported many people and projects, ran multiple businesses, and stuck to his convictions. His strong sense of justice was something he was never afraid to speak or act upon.
Hilton loved Edmonton and was a proud and active citizen of this city. He also believed deeply in equity and justice and having an impact in his community. He was passionate about the projects he supported, the people he knew, and always encouraged people to be the best version of themselves. He loved mentoring newcomers to the country, young people, and newcomers to the industry. He had a generosity of spirit that guided all that he did.
One of the things he was most proud of is creating a family at the Bon Ton. The diverse group of people he brought together from all over the world was so beautiful to him. He cared deeply for the Bon Ton family and was much more than just an owner or a boss. He invested in the people he believed in and encouraged them to see the beauty and potential in each other and within themselves. Hilton shared in the joys and accomplishments as well as the pain and disappointments of those around him. He was always there to provide courage, strength, and good advice. There was always something to learn from Hilton in the way he challenged, encouraged, and supported all of those in the Bon Ton family.
Hilton had the unique ability to make people feel that no matter what their role was they were important and respected. He was generous with his time and attention. He genuinely wanted to know about people: what made them who they were, how they were doing, and what inspired them.
Hilton had a knack for empowering people to do their best and that will continue to be carried forward, to put to work what he lived out at the bakery. While we are heartbroken to lose such a vital part of the Bon Ton family, Hilton’s care and belief in others didn’t end with his passing. His legacy will continue in the amazing place that is the Bon Ton.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Wellspring, Jasper Place Wellness Centre Food4Good Program, or Jewish Family Services in honour of Hilton’s memory.
The Dinner family and the Bon Ton family would love for you to leave a comment or a memory below.
Gone too soon – you will be missed Hilton. You were an undeniable presence and driving force to all who knew you!
Our deepest sympathies and biggest hugs to Michelle and all the BonTon staff ❤️
In the short five years I knew Hilton I would consider him a business mentor and a friend. I always appreciated our conversations, his witty banter and his sage advice. His presence at the bakery and in this community will be sorely misssed.
My condolences to the Dinner family.
Paul Shufelt
It is with much sorrow I hear that Hilton has passed away. The Bon Ton has been a great part of my life for over 55 years and Hilton has been a very large part of that. My deepest sympathies go out to the Family of Hilton and the staff of Bon Ton. Because of Hilton I know the excellent quality and service in the Bakery will continue for many years!!
I am honored and blessed to have known Hilton. He was truly a blessing in my life even for that short time and I will miss him. My condolences.
I’ve been working at Bonton for about a year now and I have never met such a great person in my life. Hilton gave me the opportunity to learn new things in the bakery and help me hone my skills in baking. He was truly a blessing in my life and I am saddened to see him go. He was a great mentor, teacher and friend. My thoughts, prayers and condolences for his family, may he be at peace.
On behalf of Terra Centre for Teen Parents we were deeply saddened to hear of Hilton’s passing. Hilton was a good friend to Terra. For over 15 years on a weekly basis under Hilton’s watchful eye a car load of wonderful baked goods would be loaded into the vehicle of our volunteer driver. This wonderful gift was then distributed to the young parents we serve. He was adamant young children needed the best nutrition. When needing a critical and objective view on an emerging project over cups of tea at Second Cup Hilton would always give me more to think about and leave me with more questions to consider. His sharp and witty nature, the ability to challenge the status quo, his devotion to community, children and families and his deep commitment to providing others opportunity for personal growth will be long felt and forever missed. Our heartfelt condolences to Michelle and the family.
Karen Mottershead, Executive Director Terra Centre for Teen Parents
The sadness I feel right now upon hearing the bad news is incomparable to what you are going through. Hilton , I can only provide you with my deepest sympathies on this sad occasion. I am honoured and blessed to have known Hilton. He was truly a blessing in my life for 5 years and I will miss my second dad❤️❤️My condolences and biggest hugs to Michelle and all the BonTon family ❤️
We were so saddened to hear about Hilton’s passing. He was a true inspiration and will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to Michelle and the entire BonTon family. Hilton will live on through all of you.❤️❤️
I am so sorry to hear of Hilton’s passing. I will always remember the beautiful cake he donated to our non-profit for people with disabilities. He was kind and generous, and will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family and friends. Bev Matthiessen
This is a beautiful and moving tribute. Thank you to whomever put it together.
I am deeply saddened to hear of Hilton’s passing. My condolences to the Dinner family and the BonTon family.
Hilton was a special man who inspired many. During our conversations over the counter I was always struck by his commitment to social justice and sustainability. He lived those beliefs in very tangible ways. I loved the twinkle in his eye during our conversation as well as his passion. There was also that steely determination, that look in his eyes, as he oversaw the Tuesday afternoon freezer sales. Never may you be caught taking something out of a box before he had put it on the table.
He will be missed. The city has lost a special person.
I was so sad to hear about the passing of Hilton. Working at Bon ton was my first job out of high school and Hilton taught me many lessons and provided me with a lot of wisdom during my time there. Bon Ton and Hilton and Michelle were a second family to me for many years. My heart felt condolences to Michelle and the entire Bon ton family ❤️❤️
My sincere condolences to Hilton’s family, friends, colleagues, staff and co-workers. I remember his kindness and generosity. He concern for all who worked with and for him.
What a great loss…! Hilton and Michelle gave me an opportunity to work in Bon Ton Bakery. It was my first job as a newcomer to Canada. They were patient in teaching me the work and Canadian culture which really helped me to adapt to Edmonton. Sympathies to Michelle and their children.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ayal, Tuval, Tamar and especially Michelle with the passing of Hilton. Hilton, his smile (+wry smile at times) and engaging personality will truly be missed. The exceptional Bon Ton staff reflect the spirit of Hilton interwoven into each of their unique personalities. Our prayer is for peace and strength for the entire Dinner and Bon Ton family.
We will so miss seeing Hilton behind the counter, urging us to try a new experiment that he’s excited about. Our hearts go out to Michelle and family. We are so grateful to the whole Bon Ton family, for your amazing products and for the inviting atmosphere you maintain, from those behind the counter to the people on door-duty who make us feel welcome. It’s clear from the many messages here that Hilton’s inspiration plays a large part in all of it, and we, and so many in the Edmonton community, benefit. Thank you and know that we’re thinking about you.
I had the pleasure of looking after Hilton’s audio video needs for the last several years. He was always gracious and understanding. He taught me how to make sourdough bread and even gave me a book on the subject. I will miss him, as much as a friend, as a customer. My heartfelt sympathies to Michelle and family for their loss. He will be fondly remembered.
Hilton you will be missed. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Michelle and family. Wishing you comfort in your memories.
Visiting BonTon and getting a cookie while shopping was a big part of my kids’ childhood – as was the larger than life presence of Hilton behind the counter.
Our sincere condolences to the family and our thanks for being such a big part of our community for so many years, Nancy, Joe and family
We will miss Hilton terribly- he was such a dear friend, and such a truly wonderful person. Whenever we go into the bakery, we will miss asking him how he is, to hear his reply “I’m gorgeous” in his warm, fun, friendly and so characteristically-Hilton voice. And every time we buy gingerbread people for our grandchildren, we will remember when Hilton stopped baking gingerbread “men and women” and started baking gingerbread “people”. Even to his baked goods he showed the same kindness, respect and integrity that he showed to everybody. In talking to a couple of the Bakery family in this last week, these messages speak volumes about who Hilton was: “He was like a father to us all- we will miss him so much”, and “we take strength in feeling that Hilton’s presence will always be with our Bakery family and in the Bon Ton Bakery.” That was who Hilton was, and that was the Hilton we all loved, and will always remember. May his memory be a blessing. Ruth and Ben Coppens
We are so sad to learn of Hilton’s passing. We feel grateful to have had his support for so many years and the opportunity to know him and his wonderful family. Our thoughts and hearts are with the Dinner family.
We or Artistic Bake Shop are sad to hear of Hilton’s passing. Condolences to the Dinner and Bon Ton family. Hilton was a man of his conviction. Kind and generous. Edmonton’s Baking community has lost a great colleague.
I first met Hilton in 1991 when I called on him to sell him flour….I loved his character and a man who knew exactly what he wanted. I enjoyed my meetings with him and am very sad to hear that he has passed. RIP Hilton…you will be baking for the angels now ….
This is such a loss. I’ve known Hilton for decades. He was feisty and kind in such a beautiful combination. As I waddled in to bonton through all my pregnancies he always sent me home with my fav cookie. As we took the next step in our business he offered guidance.
The loss to his family and Edmonton is profound.
May his memory he a blessing.
Working at Bon Ton was my very first job I had as a teenager. It’s been over 10 years and I appreciate what Hilton and Michelle has taught me. You inspired me so much and helped me find my path. I will miss you and thank you for everything you have done for me. My condolences to Dinner family.
It was always a pleasure to hear Hilton’s voice. His words would carry along the shop almost like music, regardless if he was saying,”keep the boxes down”, on Tuesdays, or asking how someone was doing, his presents was always warming. My deepest condolences to everyone who lost him.
Such a lovely man and such a wonderful bakery. I will miss Hilton’s cheery presence. My heart goes out to his family, staff and friends. Hilton will not be forgotten.
These words and stories are so wonderful, my heart goes out to his family and everyone who were touched by Hilton’s spirit and presence.
May he Rest In Peace and May your hearts be filled with memories and love for the person he was and the difference he made in peoples lives.
My deepest condolences to everyone on this huge loss. Hilton was a lovely man, with a great sense of humour. He was generous & warm. He meant a lot to so many, my family included. He will be missed. Deepest sympathy from the Dlin family.
We have know Hilton for many years. I have always respected his business acumen ; building a successful business model within a difficult industry. I will forever remember him as a respectful, engaging professional with a unique businessman’s edge.
Our deepest condolences to Michelle and all the family, we will remember all the joy and goodness that Hilton brought to the community with his characteristic Hilton voice! Thank you for all the “Gingerbread People” May his memory be a blessing .
The Mathewson/Siderson Families
Heartfelt sympathy to the Dinner family and the Bon Ton team. As a long time west end resident I have been a happy loyal Bon Ton customer and have occasionally been in the behind-the-counter presence of Mr. Hilton – we did not speak but he always acknowledged me with a gentle look, nod and a smile. May he Rest In Peace.
Such sad news. Hilton’s wit and generosity in our community was a true joy. His family is in our thoughts and we offer our heart-felt condolences. We honour a great man, Hilton Dinner
Hilton and his lovely wife Michelle were the first people I really connected with from Edmonton’s food community
when I first moved here.
I respected Hilton as much as I liked his character and chutzpah. He was the kind of guy who told you what you needed to hear rather than what you wanted to hear.
You could always feel the care in his deep voice even if he was just asking how you were or giving you a hard time for wearing sunglasses indoors or a toque in the summer. And usually this was in front of a packed room. Lol
Hilton’s passing leaves a hole in our food scene, the community and our hearts.
My sincere condolences to Michelle, the Dinner family, Gerry and the team at Bon Ton and all those that knew him.
Lehitraot. Daber iti
My sympathy and prayers and hugs to Michelle and Family. A piece of your heart is gone but your memories of good times together, will live on.
Thank you to Hilton and Michelle (and the kids for sharing your parents and family time) for allowing our family to be blessed by your love and presence. When my daughter if 14 years heard this news- her response was “I grew up there”. We will continue to support Bon Ton as Hilton’s legacy lives on for Michelle and the family. Sending love.
Oh my gosh, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Hilton. He has touched so many people through your bakery and through connections in the community. My heart is broken for you. I hope you feel the love and support from us all. I’m so sorry for your loss Michelle. If i can do anything please let me know.
It was Christmas time, several years ago now. When I had made a purchase at the bakery, upon leaving, I noticed these beautiful pots at the front, filled with amazing greenery and foot long pine cones. The arrangements were magnificent! Well, about 2 weeks after Christmas, upon my weekly bread buying trip, I noticed those pots still standing. Looking a little more dried out after all this time but nevertheless still out there. I asked Hilton if I could purchase the giant pine cones still in the pots. His reply was, please help yourself to them but I too have a request, he said. “Please give the next poor person $5 or $10 for whatever they may need. That was how he was, so very kind.
Truly devastated to hear of the loss of the beloved Hilton z’l . He was always such a charmer whenever i saw him. Greeting me with a shake of his head and then his smile would appear and we’d share that knowing laugh. Then he’d yell at me if I didn’t bring in my recycled bags. He was a man I always admired for his love of family, life, community and Israel. He was so passionate about his beliefs and he loved his family fiercely. I will miss Hilton, the gentle giant truly. Sending sincere condolences to Michelle, Yuval, Tuval and Tammy and the entire Dinner and Bon Ton Family
I am sorry for loss, Hilton was awoderful person.who will be sorely missed. Their warm sport and generosity was a joy to all who knew them. Please accept my condolences to both you and your family!!
Hilton has always been a great supporter of other local bakers. From coming to see me at the farmers market, to visiting me at my bakery. He always had honest words of encouragement and wisdom. I will miss our encounters. All the best to Michelle and his family.
Ayal and family, thoughts are with you. Ayal I feel so lucky to have met you and your father. You brought Bon Ton treats to Riverdale to help host a Parks People event. That was the last ‘exposure’ I had to your family and its growing legacy. Bon Ton treats being such a sweat thing to share. Not just for being delicious but for being made in the best way. A taste of how to run a business in Right Relationship, in a way that builds community. I met your dad at his store because I used to work nearby and would stop in on my way home. I got to speak with him many times and he always shared questions and answers in a fun educational and very special way. I knew he was a great man who was making the world a better place in the way he did things and in the why he did things. -honoured to have met your father. Sorry for your loss.
So sorry to learn of your loss. Hilton was exactly how you described. I first met Hilton at the original Bagel Bin where I placed my daily orders of bagels, breads and other delights over 24 years ago when I own the Central Cafe and Juice Bar, Hilton was such fun with his dry sense of humor and wit. He will be dearly missed. I feel so blessed to have had the pleasure of his life touching mine. All the best Michelle and family. Warmest regards, Sharon L Maclean
I only knew Hilton & Michelle for a short time. Our paths intersected when Hilton hired me to help out at the Bon Ton. I enjoyed many conversations about issues that were important both to him and to me over the 14 months that I worked there. His big heart and his wonderful sense of humour became evident to me in a very short time.
His respect for employees and customers; the integrity that the Dinners had for creating amazing products and a positive work environment are of the highest standard. It was also a pleasure to see what a great team Michelle and Hilton were in running the Bon Ton. The mutual respect they showed for each other was a good testimony to their commitment.
I am so very sorry for the loss that the Dinner family is experiencing. Hilton was a terrific human being. Sending my heartfelt condolences to you all.
~ Rose Dueck
On behalf of The Jasper Place Wellness Centre, we send our deepest sympathy and love to both the Dinner Family and the Bon Ton crew. We were blessed to have Hilton serve on our board of directors, bringing his wisdom and perspectives to our community work.
From some of the other messages left here, you can see how Hilton has been influential across our city. Serving and supporting many groups and organizations that reach some of our most vulnerable populations regardless of the effort it took. Though we may not have his physical presence, we know his influence and will carry it forward.
I will always be thankful for what Hilton and Michelle brought to our community, especially the laughter.
Dear Michelle and family, please accept our condolences. Our thoughts are with you. May his memory be a blessing. Sincerely Debbie and Alvin Goldsman
It is always extra special when you support a business and you connect to the people who work at and run that business.
Hilton and all the rest at Bon Ton were easy to relate to and were wonderful purveyors of fine baked goods.
Our family have relied on Bon Ton since before our kids were born and our kids, took the cookies and their name for Hilton was “Mr. Goody”.
He will be missed by many and the loss will be shared.
Such sad news. Hilton was a big part of the Edmonton food community. I have always admired his business acumen and his sense of community. And his sense of humour. Condolences to Michelle and the family, his BonTon family and to his friends and colleagues everywhere. We are a little less without him.
Time plays a role
But words do not console
The heart does beat
Where pain and grief meet
The anger – why now
This is not how
It should end.
The memories are there
For us to share
All is a blur
Longing for what we were
I want you here – now
This is not how
It should end.
From Israel with deep condolences and compassion. Ella
Of all the people I met and interviewed for Food Artisans of Alberta, Hilton stood out for his completely generous and supportive way of being in the world. I went into the bakery to interview him. I met almost everyone there. And, of course, I left with a HUGE bag of goodies! I’m so glad I met him. I am so sad for your loss. With kindness, Karen Anderson
I am so sorry, and sad to hear of the passing of Hilton. I will miss the banter we shared every Saturday, along with Hilton’s wit and humour. Rest assured that I will continue, as I have for the past 40 years, to enjoy the offerings of Bon Ton. My deepest condolences to Michelle and family.
I didn’t personally know him but I saw him few times in mi visits to the Bakery. We exchanged few words one time and talk about our native country. I’m so sorry. All my sympathy to his family and workers.
I am so sorry to learn about the loss of Hilton, and my condolences to his family and the Bonton crew. I remember with fondness stopping by on Saturdays with my boys when they were little. Hilton would say to them, with his gruff voice, and a twinkle in his eye, “Has she been a good girl?” before sliding the tray of cookies on the counter for their little hands to grasp. Shopping at Bon Ton really is a community activity which has been fostered and nurtured by this lovely and kind soul. He will be sadly missed.
My sincere condolences to Hilton’s family, friends and the entire Bon Ton team. I didn’t know Hilton, but I admire the business he has created and the work he’s done in the community. He will be greatly missed.
Deeply sorry for your loss on such a special and unforgettable man. I could see how much he truly cared about everyone and took pride in such a wonderful shop.
I was very saddened to learn of Mr. Dinner’s passing. He was always so friendly and helpful when I would see him at the bakery. My heartfelt condolences to his life and work families. He will be missed!
Our deepest condolences to Michelle and the family on Hilton’s passing. May his memory be eternal and may he rest in peace with the angels in heaven. He was a real “MENCH’!
Upon meeting this man, many many years ago…he said to me, “Just remember Dinner at the Hilton”…as we shook hands.
He had agreed to allow a work study student from NAIT to work and gain practical experience in his first bakery in Edmonton. From the beginning, I remember him being very generous with his knowledge as he provided mentorship towards our students from the Baking program.
After 20 years in retirement, Bon Ton remains our go-to bakery for our special treats.
My sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family and staff at the bakery.
Our family remain faithful customers and will continue to enjoy the products that you prepare in his memory.
May Hilton Rest In Peace…
Bob MORGAN
Program Head, retired
NAIT Baking.
I am simply a regular customer of Bonton, but my memory of Hilton Dinner was that he was always at the bakery every time I shopped. I came to see him as a warm, hard working boss, friendly with customers and very committed to his staff. My sincere condolences to his family and staff for your great loss. He leaves a great legacy behind.
In sympathy,
Jennifer Eagle
My sincere condolences to family and friends.Hilton was larger than life and will be missed.
Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Hilton’s family and staff at bakery.
May Hilton Rest and Peace
In sympathy Anna and Leszek Stolarz
I was very sad to learn of Hilton’s passing and extend heartfelt condolences to his family and the staff of Bon Ton. We were greatly enriched by his wisdom, wit and generosity. The many condolences expressed and the stories contained therein speak volumes of a life well-lived. May your inexhaustible spirit live on in us all.
My husband and I bought wonderful bagels from Hilton at the Bagel Bin and that continued at Bon Ton along with many other bakery goods. Hilton was usually there with a smile and a word. He was Bon Ton. Condolences to his family.
Dear Michelle, Dinner family, and Bon Ton family. You have our heartfelt sympathies. I remember a time that I teased Hilton that I was exporting his bagels to Calgary as they had become an essential lunch ingredient for my children. But it was his love and concern for individuals in his staff and the community that warms my heart. He has given us a precious legacy to continue.
Jane and Ernie
I am so sorry to hear about Hilton’s passing. Although I did not know Hilton personally, I was greeted by him many times when shopping at Bon Ton – his outgoing personality never failed to remind me of Tevye (i.e. Zero Mostel who played Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof) – his obvious love for life and his work shining through. My sincere condolences – I am sure Hilton will be greatly missed.
We got to know Hilton and the Bon Ton Bakery when we moved to Rio Terrace. Hilton was always there with a kind hello. Even when we ran into him on Home Depot, he remembered us and stopped to chat. Years after moving away from Rio Terrace, we still make the weekly drive back to Bon Ton for our bread. We love the staff and the baking and wouldn’t have it any other way. Our condolences go out to Hilton’s family. He will be missed.
So very sorry to hear this sad news. Thoughts and prayers are with the family, both personal and other! He has left a legacy to be proud of and will be missed.
We are truly saddened by the loss of Hilton. He meant so much to the small business community in Edmonton and was an inspiration to us and many in our industry. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Michelle and the entire Bon Ton family.
My condolences to Michelle and the family. I always loved seeing the family atmosphere in the bakery and greatly appreciated his dedication to the community. He will be greatly missed by some many.
So sorry to hear about Hilton’s passing. I (we) have been shopping @ Bon Ton for their terrific CINNAMON BREAD AND CHALLAH for over 50 years! Such a GREAT MAN!!! Condolences to all family and staff on their great loss….
My heart goes out to Michelle, the family, and the team at Bon Ton. I am acquainted with grief and am sad to know that you are now on that journey as well. Hilton was a character. I enjoyed the timber of his voice, the mischief in his eye and the integrity in his actions. Bon Ton is such a community treasure and a symbol of Hilton’s business acumen and love for people.
My condolences to Hilton’s family and the Bon Ton family. My daughter is a schoolmate of one of Hilton and Michelle ‘s grandchildren. I met them around 5 or 6 yrs ago at school. Even with a business to run, they made lots of time for family. I enjoyed meeting them as I didn’t know they owned Bon Ton and made sure to say HI to them when I stopped there after meeting them. Many kind words have been left by many people here. He will be grately missed by so many. Peace be with you all.
For thirty years we have loved the Bakery, and Hilton was such a presence, cookies for the kids, a smile for all. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathies.
We, the team at Pathfinder Consulting, were very saddened when we received the news that Hilton had passed away. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and work colleagues.
After 15 years of our mutual collaboration, we will miss the deep and friendly voice at the end of the line as we together navigated the Immigration labyrinth. As part of his legacy, thinking of him puts a smile in our hearts, and that is a very, very good thing to leave us with. We are certain his finger print will forever mark the lives of everybody his hand touched.
We were deeply saddened to learn of Hilton’s passing. He was a warm and generous man who put his heart into developing nutritious breads for his customers. He was also a character. Above all, Hilton cared. He cared about the quality of the baked goods he sold; he cared about his customers (including our two daughters, Emma and Laura, who each has her own lasting memories of Hilton); and he cared about his Bon Ton family. Hilton also cared deeply about Edmonton and about any number of issues, including the treatment of teen mothers, immigrants and refugees (to mention only a few). His loss will be deeply felt in the community. Our heartfelt condolences to Michelle and the Dinner family, to Gerry and to the Bon Ton staff. Hilton will live in our memories and in our care for others.
When I think of Bonton, I think of Hilton’s booming baritone voice, teasing and kind when I was indecisive about which delicious item I wanted on a particular day. You all have been a part of my life for the past 20(?) years since moving back to Canada. So nice to have a touch of European flavours available so close to home after leaving Germany. My deepest condolences to you all. Great big shoes to fill. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. 💕
Breaking bread together is the heart of hospitality. Hospitality is the soul of community. In 2011, Hilton donated tasty Bonton baking for the NorQuest College launch of our book of stories told by six women who migrated from Cambodia to Canada, made homes here, were fed, and fed others too. Hilton’s generosity is the kind of lingering good taste.
I am sooo grateful for the hospitality of generous staff and the delectable desserts and delicious bread for the past 20 years. Mr. Dinner was a servant of the community for sure, it’s most inspiring to see his spirit of love work magic on and on, in the bakery every week. Condolences to Michelle and children and Bon Ton family. Gen Ashwell
I’ll miss Hilton’s warmth and his brilliant sense of humour. My condolences to Michelle and the whole brilliant Bon Ton family.
Hilton, Michelle and the BonTon have fed my family for many years. We come for the treats – yes of course! And our son was the beneficiary of the teddy bear cookies when he was little. But it is our daily bread that is most important. The emphasis Hilton placed on a truly healthy product, with flours sourced from a local farmer, is what has brought us back week after week, year after year. We appreciate Hilton’s commitment to community causes and feeding those in need, and his wry sense of humour. Sending our deepest sympathy to Michelle and family, and to the BonTon family. He will be missed.
I used to bring my son and daughter twice a week to Bon Ton in a red wagon where they would happily munch on the cookies Hilton would give them. Now 14 years later, they go in their own The Bon Ton family is amazing and my family is ever so thankful for Hilton’s caring, thoughtfulness and warm smiles he gave every time we walked through the bakery doors. Condolences and much love.
I will always remember Hilton greeting me warmly whenever I came in; especially if I hadn’t been in for months, he would always speak to me as if we last spoke yesterday. My thoughts are prayers are with the Dinner family.
Just yesterday, my husband and I were at Bon Ton to pick up pastries for a much-needed work from home coffee break. As I left the bakery, I told him, “No matter how many other bakeries come and go in this city, this one has always been my favourite. And it’s because of the people.” It’s true: Every single person I’ve encountered there in the 40-plus years I’ve been going has been kind, warm and obviously so happy in their work. And now, reading about Hilton, I can see why. What a lovely person and what a beautiful legacy, to have touched the lives of so many with his warmth, compassion and gorgeous baked goods. My condolences to your family. Thank you for warming our hearts all these years.
My sincere condolences to Michelle and family. The years I worked at the BonTon were some of my very best and most memorable..Hilton and his family and friends and co-workers offered me many opportunities, and in many ways made my life fuller.
Hilton always treated me with respect and genuine care and left a lasting impression with the words of wisdom he shared.
His generosity of spirit will live on as we care for each other.
Love for you all.
I was very sad to learn of Hilton’s passing. His friendly face and pleasant personality always made everyone feel welcome. His community efforts were appreciated by many. Thinking of the Dinner family as well as everyone at Bon Ton who carries on his Legacy.
Hilton was a constant presence in the community while I was growing up in Edmonton. I saw him often on my visits back as we would frequent Bon Ton. He always exuded openness, friendliness and generosity. His absence will be noticed by many. My condolences to the Dinner family.
We were so sorry to hear the news of Hilton’s passing. We love Hilton for the way in which he created and supported both community and family. His deep laugh, warm smile and kind heart will never be forgotten in our house. Some of my fondest memories of Hilton include how patient he was when I was teaching our kids at a very young age, to make eye contact with people we didn’t know. He would patiently and lovingly sit across the counter and wait for the kids to look into his big eyes and say “thank you.” He understood the importance of making everyone feel valued. Our sincere condolences to Michelle, their family as well as the Bon Ton Staff who for us, have become part of our extended family. His generosity and impact in our community will not be forgotten and we hold nothing but fond memories.
When my late husband and I moved to West Edmonton in1987, we soon discovered our favourite bakery, and I still make the trek across the city from the Southeast corner where we moved 9 years ago. Hilton was the face and heart of the Bon Ton, and his presence filled the shop with his hearty, warm personality. I just saw his tribute here tonight, and am quite shocked. The last time I was at the shop, I briefly spoke to him, and I can’t believe he won’t be greeting customers any more! What a sad loss for his family, his friends, his colleagues, and the Edmonton community he loved so well. It is, truly, a painful loss for all.
It was a shock to hear about Hilton’s passing and we send our condolences to Michelle, their children and the Bon Ton family. Hilton was a very special man who lived his convictions, a generous soul who contributed to charities, and a friendly presence as he greeted each person he encountered. When I first met Hilton, I asked him his name. He said, “I can’t tell you.” “Why not,” I asked. He said, “Because you will laugh.” He finally told me it was Hilton Dinner, and I did chuckle – but mostly because of his playful spirit.
Hilton had a huge presence and we knew he was in the Bon Ton when we heard his deep, resonant voice. We bought bagels at the Bagel Bin from Hilton, and were very happy when he took over the Bon Ton, as it was even closer to home. Cinnamon bread, bagels, muffins are all staples at our house, and we love the lemon tarts and sweets that he added on over the years.
Due to the staff he has hired and trained, we know that Michelle and the Bon Ton family will carry on the “Hilton spirit and hospitality.” We are grateful to have known him. He will be remembered fondly.
Thank you for the memories, you made a difference in our world. We will always treasure those magic moments. Our condolences to Michelle, family and Bon Ton staff.
Michelle – to you, your family and your staff, – we are so sad to hear of Hilton’s passing.
“You can be empty because you can’t see him
Or you can be full of the love that you shared”
And indeed that he shared with so many!
A remarkable man!
I was very sad to hear of Hilton’s passing. My wife and I could never pass the bakery without stopping in to pick up some type of sweet treat. We met Hilton several times even though I never knew who he was until I started to work with Terra Centre, an agency which he generously supported for many years. His personality was cheerful and warm and it understandable now, why my wife and I were always drawn to that bakery. His spirit was definitely in that place and the delicious pastries they provided. We will continue to support this bakery and we extend our deepest condolences to his family , staff and I am sure …. many friends. I will miss him
Hilton made you feel like you were a long time friend and always had time for conversation. He made me smile listening to his exchanges with customers. My condolences to the family and staff.
Our deepest condolences to your family in the profound loss of Hilton. We respect and honour the presence and contributions Hilton made in our community. I will miss his deep voice on entering the store. Tanice loves that Hilton still offered her kiddie cookies when she was a sulky teenager. We have loved having Bonton close by and look forward to the Bonton family continuing the legacy that he began and created. May you all feel care support and love from expected and unexpected people and places during this unusual holiday season. Take care, Aileen, Rick and Tanice
Dec 18th was our fIrst time on-line ordering. What a total shock.
I grew up on 149st and 92ave starting in the 60s. I would save up my money doing odd jobs just to go to Bon Ton as I was hooked on my first visit. I have remained a loyal customer despite moving out to the country near Millet.
Your baked goods that I bring to my friends and family make them feel special. When my Dad was dying from cancer he did not have much of an appetite so I would bring him treats from Bon Ton which he always had an appetite for. When visiting my elderly friends a stop was made at your store. I still make cinnamon bread runs to give to my dear neighbours.
Although you have incredible baking products it is the Bon Ton family that keeps us going back. Hilton always made a point to engage us in conversation making us feel so welcome. I loved seeing him extend this behaviour to as many customers as he could. He had a remarkable ability to remember things about each of his customers. Hilton along with his wife are great mentors as the staff does this as well. I cried when I saw this and will cry when I am parked picking up my order on the 21st but please know that these are not tears of sadness but rather tears of happiness to be so lucky to have known such a wonderful soul and for the countless memories of his wife’s smiles
Thank you so very much from a Bon Ton Lifer
Christine Crosley
I recently retired from Jasper Place High School. While there, I ran the breakfast/lunch program. For many years the program received generous donations of the fabulous bread from the Bon Ton Bakery. Our students were able to enjoy toast and sandwiches and go to class with full stomachs. Then generosity of Hilton and his family was greatly appreciated. He made a huge difference in the lives of many. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Ed Struzik and Julia Parker: Shocked to learn of this. Sad because I (Ed) was so much looking for Hilton’s return to the store so that we could banter about life, politics and family. I always enjoyed his conversation and his inspiring words. When my daughter Sigrid overheard him talk about one of his favourite charities that helped single young women, she went home and emptied her piggy-bank and donated it all. She was five years old at the time! Both of our children looked forward to dropping in several times a week to pick up a bear’s paw before gymnastics class. It was a wonderful ritual, one we missed and were hoping that maybe some day in the future, we could start it up gain with grandchildren. Hilton will be missed!
October 23rd.,2021.I just learned of Hilton’s passing this summer. May God bless Hilton’s family & bakers he worked with. I remember Hilton’s strong presence when I handed him a resum’e years ago.His inspiration & high standards of fine baking are gratefully being carried on by bakers at the BonTon, best bakery in Edmonton!
I have had a career as Chef & baker, & continue to use my God given Artists touch in the kitchen even with career change, having just graduated with my IBSW Degree. May there be healing guided by God, for Hilton’s family & people he worked with. We all share a love of beautiful baking, so his inspiration is carried on at the Bon Ton.