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This scholarship fund is established in loving memory of Chris Hilleary, who died suddenly in July 2021 at the age of 57. This need-based academic scholarship provides financial support for Mount Baker High School graduates to attend Western Washington University. The goal of the fund is to improve accessibility and assist students in furthering their education in the hope that they, like Chris, may follow their passion through academic pursuits and thrive in both career and personal settings.
Chris was born in Bellingham, Washington and besides a plethora of stints in ski towns and beach towns, spent most of his life in Whatcom County. He loved this area, as he loved his family and his many, many friends. Chris was well known for his brilliant mind and natural athletic talents on the slopes, surf and golf course. He also developed extraordinary culinary skills which complemented his love of entertaining with family and friends. He was a peacemaker and confidant, with a kind and generous heart.
Chris attended Mt Baker High School where he ran track and cross country and played basketball when he wasn't skiing. Chris attended Western Washington University after high school. Though he was successful as a student, he left school to pursue seasonal athletic experiences in a variety of locations. Upon returning to Western Washington University later in life Chris discovered a pathway to blend his passions for athletic pursuits and his innovative nature by building expertise in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program. Chris earned his degree in Manufacturing Engineering in 1997, the same year he began working for Aerotech Sports. He purchased the golf division of the company in 2001 and became president and lead designer of his own company called Aerotech Golf. In the golf world, Chris was known as a visionary whose ideas transcended traditional thought and created an innovative segment of the golf shaft industry. By the time he sold the company in 2019 the Aerotech brand had become an unequivocal success, accepted worldwide by golfers of all levels and ranking as the #1 graphite iron shaft on the Pro Tours.
Those who had the pleasure of knowing Chris recognize his kindness and humility. Chris loved heartily, passionately, relentlessly, and unconditionally. He loved, and was loved by, his wife Carrie and their daughters Oneal and Braeden. He will be greatly missed.
Please contact Amber Asbjornsen at (360) 650-3616 for more information about this scholarship, if you have trouble making a gift, or to make a gift over the phone
