Dawn Sue Hilker

Dawn Sue Hilker, age 56, of York, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in York. Born in Lancaster, PA, Dawn was the beloved daughter of the late Laura Jane (Hauck) Shivers and Clair Edgar Luckabaugh.

Dawn was the cherished wife of Joseph Hilker, with whom she shared 40 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. She is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph, and their loving daughter, Heather Hilker.

Dawn is also survived by her brother, Edward Luckabaugh; her sister, Heidi Lee, and brother-in-law, Brian Lee; and her two nieces, Rebekah Lee and Heather Lee.

A proud graduate of Harrisburg Area Community College, where she earned her Associate's Degree, Dawn had a passion for helping others, especially the younger generation. She poured her heart into mentorship programs at her church, always eager to invest in the lives of youth with kindness, faith, and wisdom. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond people—Dawn had a deep love for animals, especially her cherished dogs, Raven and Riley. She found great joy in helping her daughter with her pet sitting business, Life of a Pet Sitter.

One of Dawn’s greatest joys was visiting Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, NY. She adored feeding the giraffes and looked forward each year to renewing her annual pass. Her love for animals and her joyful, giving heart were evident to all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM at Praise Community Church of God, 705 S Ogontz St, York, PA 17403. In honor of Dawn, guests are encouraged to wear her favorite colors—soft pastels, especially blue or pink.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, NY, Animal Adventure Park Giraffe Tower Support Donation a place that brought Dawn so much happiness.

An online guestbook is available at mccomasfuneralhome.com, where condolences and memories may be shared by those whose lives were touched by Dawn.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered for her warmth, her love of animals, and the light she brought into the lives of so many.