Reuben Martin Kilbourn, 97, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 21, 2026.

Born on November 25, 1928, at home in Harrisville, New York, Reuben was the son of Aruna and Anna Luther Kilbourn and the last surviving of their nine children.

He graduated from Harrisville High School and proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. After his military service, he returned to Northern New York, where he built his life and career working for J&L Steel at Benson Mines.

Reuben is survived by his daughter, Pamelia Hebert of Harrisville, New York; his grandsons, Lucas Getman of Harrisville, New York, Austin Hebert of Dallas, Texas, and Michael Hebert of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; his great-grandson, Miles Reuben Getman; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was a lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Reds and Buffalo Bills, though he could often be found watching just about any sporting event on television. He was an avid reader who enjoyed golfing, hunting, crossword puzzles, and sharing a cold Utica Club with family and friends.

A celebration of life for Reuben will be held later this spring in Harrisville, New York, with the date and time to be announced.

In the meantime, if Reuben touched your life, his family encourages you to think of a story to share at the celebration.