Steven Carlton Colter Hilmert

Steven Carlton Colter Hilmert, age 27, of Lawton, Michigan, passed away on February 28, 2026. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Steven worked in construction and enjoyed many aspects of the trade, particularly exterior work such as roofing and siding. He was naturally mechanical and loved working with his hands, often repairing vehicles, fixing equipment, and restoring things he had purchased. He took pride in being able to figure things out and make things work.

Steven had a deep love for the outdoors. Fishing was one of his greatest passions, especially on Gravel Lake where he loved chasing walleye and spending long hours on the water. He fished year-round, including ice fishing during the winter months, and enjoyed participating in several local fishing leagues and tournaments. Steven dreamed of one day becoming a professional fisherman.

Being on the water brought him peace. One of his favorite sayings was, “When I’m out here, I feel like I’m rich, even though I’m poor.” For Steven, the lake was like going to church — a place where he could reflect, feel close to God, and appreciate the quiet beauty of the world around him.

Steven loved adventure and the adrenaline that often came with being outdoors. Whether he was fishing, hunting, or snowmobiling across open fields, he felt most alive in wide open spaces. He loved spending time with friends and family in those moments, sharing the outdoors together. Being outside in nature gave him a deep sense of freedom, and it was where he found both happiness and peace.

Steven had a generous heart and a natural desire to help others. Though he appreciated quiet time to himself, he was also naturally outgoing, often smiling and connecting easily with people. When he was out on the lake, it was not unusual for him to invite strangers — especially families with children — onto his boat so they could experience the water with him. Children sometimes even got the chance to sit in the driver’s seat and steer while he shared the excitement of being out on the lake.

Steven loved his son, Silas Lee Colter, and hoped to build a strong relationship with him in the years ahead.

He also had a deep compassion for animals and often rescued stray dogs whenever he could. Steven shared his life with three beloved dogs: Busa, Harley, and Angel.

He enjoyed traveling and dreamed of a quieter life in the country, living off-grid and surrounded by nature. He often spoke about wanting land where he could plant pear trees of his own. One of his fondest childhood memories was visiting his grandparents’ farm and eating pears straight from the trees — a simple moment that stayed with him throughout his life.

Steven was a Christian and believed deeply in God. Like many people, he struggled at times but continued seeking peace and meaning through his faith and through the quiet moments he found in nature.

Steven is survived by his partner, Kimberle Sisk; his son, Silas Lee Colter; his parents, Kenny Brown (Leah) and Leanne Kelly; his father, Tim Colter; his siblings Jennifer Colter, Melissa Colter, Tim Colter (Mia), Oscar Colter, Andrew Mumford, Jake Brown, Anthony Brown (Brittany), and Dominic Brown (Amber); his nephew Landon Conlin; and many extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 21 at 4:00 PM at First Free Will Baptist Church of Comstock, 630 Moline Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Following the service, friends and family are invited to continue gathering at Augusta-Custer VFW Post 7956, 13549 W M-96, Augusta, Michigan, where memories and stories will continue to be shared in celebration of Steven’s life.

Steven will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his generous heart, and the happiness and peace he found on the water.