Frank Ortega Hillan

Frank Ortega Hillan

March 9, 1950 – August 19, 2026

Frank Hillan, 76, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2026, at 11:00 p.m., surrounded by loved ones.

Born on March 9, 1950, in Sonora, Arizona, Frank was the beloved son of Basilio O. Hillan of Etzatlan, Jalisco, and Flora O. Hillan of Holbrook, Arizona. He grew up in Sonora, Arizona, before his family later settled in Mesa. There, he attended Kino Jr. High and then Westwood High School, where he proudly played varsity football as a Westwood Warrior. Afterward, Frank moved to Superior to be closer to family and ultimately settled in Mesa, Arizona, where he made his home.

Frank will be remembered as the best dad in the world. As a father, he was loving, patient, giving, and kind. To those who knew him, he was known for his kindness, humor, strength, generosity, strong work ethic, faith, and deep love for his family.

Frank loved being outdoors—camping, fishing, enjoying cookouts, spending time in the desert, and visiting rivers, lakes, and the natural world. More than anything, he cherished time with his family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, loved ones, and friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Desiree Elola, Autumn Hillan, and Leya Hillan; his grandchildren, Brianna Medina, Joe Medina, Charlee Longacre, and Analeticia Flores; and his great-grandchildren, Elias, Jazmyn, Izaac, Maverick, and Willow. He is also survived by his sisters, Rosita Hillan, Olivia Garcia, and Joanna Hillan, as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his son, Daniel Hillan; his parents, Basilio and Flora; and his siblings, Amelia Bremen, Juanita Hillan, Carmen Ulloa, Basilio Hillan Jr., Carlos Hillan, and Elodia Sanchez.

A service honoring Frank’s life will be held on September 12, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. at Los Hermanos, 835 US-60, Superior, AZ 85173.

Frank wanted everyone to gather, celebrate together with food, music, and dancing, and remember the importance of being present with those we love. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend time with your family, actively love one another, forgive freely, and be a good person in your community.

Frank will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.