Obituaries: February 2025

Feb. 1, 2025

Gary Grimes

Gary Wayne Grimes, 74, of Topeka, Kan., died on Jan. 10, 2025.

     Gary joined Senior Softball USA tournament in 2010 and continued playing late in the 2024 season, until his unexpected passing.

     Outside of his long career as an architect, one of his top passions was sports. “Gary spent countless hours attending football and basketball games,” according to his online obituary. “The Wildcats, [a local high school varsity football team,] brought both immense joy and occasional frustration to his life, while also creating countless cherished memories with his family.”

     In addition to senior softball, Gary also played senior basketball and volleyball. He was also involved in the expansion of Kansas State University’s football stadium through his architect firm.

     Besides sports and architecture, Gary also enjoyed working in his garden/yard, riding his Harley, watching Jeopardy and, most importantly, time with family.

     “Gary was currently serving as the president of the 70th Infantry Division, a position close to his heart, inspired by his father’s service in the Army during World War II,” his obituary states.

     Gary will be remembered for playing with Mid-America Legends (formerly: Mokan Silver Sluggers) 60s (MO) and Not Dead Yet 70s (KS).

Brad Hillard

Bradley Hillard, 70, of Sacramento died on Nov. 27, 2024, due to a heart attack.

     Brad’s life was surrounded by sports, bringing numerous sports companies and sport industries to the capital of California during his time with the Sacramento Sports Commission and Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau.

     As the former Chief of Sports and Entertainment Officer of the Sacramento Sports Commission, Brad was key in supporting and sponsoring Senior Softball USA’s Sacramento Tournaments, including the Western National Championships and Northern California State Championships.

     “Brad was instrumental in helping forge an alliance with Placer Valley Tourism, Explore Elk Grove and the Sacramento Sports Commission, which brought the Western National Championships to the Sacramento area,” said Terry Hennessy, SSUSA’s chief executive officer. “His ability to address challenges with grace, humor and wisdom made him a treasure to work with for many years building Senior Softball in the Sacramento area.”

     “A passionate sports fan, Brad was a loyal supporter of the Sacramento Kings, San Francisco Giants, San Francisco 49ers and the California Golden Bears,” according to his online obituary.

     Outside of sports and work, he enjoyed traveling with his wife, Londa, outdoor activities such as fishing, skiing and backpacking, and was a major rock and roll fan.

     Brad will best be remembered for supporting his community through his work and passion for sports and adventure.