John Norman Hilgerson, 86, of Ames, passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at Accura Healthcare of Ames. John was born November 29, 1932, in Essex, Iowa the son of John William and Marjorie Phyllis (Johnson) Hilgerson. He graduated from Coburg High School in 1950 and Peru Teachers College in Nebraska in 1957. On June 6, 1959, John was united in marriage to Margaret Rose Toman at St. John's Catholic Church in Plattsmouth, Nebraska. He then earned his master's degree at Colorado State College in 1961 and taught world history for Ames High School for 41 years, retiring in 1994. John also took several courses at Iowa State University and Indian University. Three graduate hours were earned at Hyfa University in Israel. John is survived by his wife, Margaret of Ames. He was preceded in death by his parents. At John's wish, he has been cremated and no services are planned. Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada is handling arrangements.