Wayne Hildebrandt Obituary

Wayne A. Hildebrandt passed away from cancer on June 3, 2025. His parents Dean Hildebrandt and Louise Stenholm Hildebrandt preceded him in death. He is survived by his long-time partner Michele Allen, his brother, Ronald Hildebrandt, sister, Lori Jones and many beloved relatives.

Wayne was born June 11, 1947 in Tacoma, Washington, to Dean and Louise Hildebrandt. After high school, he obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Washington in 1969, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry from Washington State University in 1974. Wayne completed post-doctoral teaching at the University of Michigan-Flint before being hired at Northern Arizona University in 1975 to begin his 35-year teaching career in Analytical Chemistry. He was a lifelong member of the prestigious American Chemical Society. Wayne served in many roles at NAU including Interim Department Chair twice, Coordinator of the General Studies Degree program, and statewide chair of the Chemistry Articulation Task force. He mentored dozens of students and colleagues.

Students repeatedly ranked Dr. Hildebrandt with high regard for his teaching and nominated him for 2005 Homecoming Dedicatee and Teacher of the Year 2004 and 2005. He retired from NAU with Emeritus status in 2010.

Wayne was a skilled amateur photographer beginning his work as a television cameraman in KTVW Seattle. Later one of his photos was selected as the cover print in Weatherwise Magazine. He spent many years on his motorcycle and later enjoyed exploring the Northwest coast with Michele in their RV.

Wayne will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by friends and family. Donations in his name to the NAU General Chemistry Fund would honor him.

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