Driving force behind food distribution center passes away

SHAWANO — John W. Hill, who was integral to establishing the Shawano Area Food Center, passed away Saturday, April 25, at age 91.

“John was an integral part of our society,” former Shawano Mayor Jeanne Cronce said. “He did so much for so many. He was so helpful to so many. He is going to be missed. He was a very generous man.”

Cronce had known Hill and his family for many years.

“He was a great guy,” she said. “He had a lot of exciting stories to tell people and gave you excellent advice when it came to anything you asked him.”

Hill was active in a number of organizations, including the Masons and United Way, the Shawano County Economic Progress Inc. board of directors, Shawano County’s Long-term Support Committee, and the Shawano County Job Center board and management committee.

He also raised funds every year to help clean weeds from Shawano Lake.

He was named the 2011 Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce for his efforts in establishing the Shawano Area Food Center.

Hill was able to secure a building, set up refrigerator and freezer space, and raise more than $37,000 for remodeling within 30 days.

“God gave him the insight to see that we needed this thing,” said Flo Withers, coordinator of the Shawano Area Food Pantry (SAFPARC). “What a blessing that was.”

The Shawano Area Food Center, part of the national Feed America program, distributes food to 21 food pantries and other outlets in the area, including SAFPARC.

Withers said Hill contacted local businesses and county government to get the food distribution center started.

“He really did a lot on that,” she said. “He had such foresight. He did a really good job at setting that up.”