Surrounded by his family, longtime Malibu community activist, orthopedic surgeon and resident, Daniel D. Hillman, MD, passed away on Nov. 23 in his place of birth, San Francisco.
Dr. Hillman graduated from the USC School of Medicine in 1957. He then established the first family medical practice in Malibu, completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Miami and UC Irvine, and completed postgraduate studies at Wrightington Hospital in Wigan, England. Dr. Hillman practiced in Santa Monica and Malibu for 40 years, and served on staff at St. Johns and Santa Monica hospitals, including as chief of orthopedic surgery from 1989-1993. He took care of three generations of Malibu families and gave back to the community throughout his life. In 1964, Dr. Hillman was a member of the Malibu Citizens Incorporation Committee, one of the first attempts at cityhood. He spoke and campaigned against massive development and helped prevent sewers.
Dr. Hillman’s compassion extended beyond Malibu. While in Israel with his daughter, he provided surgery for victims of the Lebanese War.
Dr. Hillman was dedicated to serving the community and those in need. He devoted his time and expertise to the Venice Family Clinic, Hadassah-University and Ramban Hospitals in Israel, USC Keck School of Medicine, the USC Shoah Foundation and other nonprofits and charitable organizations.
“He traveled the globe with an appreciation for cultures and languages,” a loved one shared. “He was an avid skier and could often be seen flying down the mountain in Sun Valley and Mammoth Lakes. He was most at home on the shores of Malibu.”
Dr. Hillman is survived by his life partner Patricia Lee; sister Gail Sanders; three daughters, Karen Fried and husband Zev, Jana Gustman and husband Sam, and Kim Simon and husband Yuss; and grandchildren: Lucy, Eva, Henry, Justine and Lily.
“He is a great man, life partner, father, grandfather, healer and humanitarian who can never be replaced,” a family member said. “He will be deeply missed.”