Obituary of Kathryn L Hilken

Kathryn L. Hilken (nee Marple) age 87, of Bloomington, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2023.  She is survived by her loving husband, Dean, children Jodi (Rich), Janet (Gary), Jeff, 6 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter.

Kathryn loved God, her family, and all her many friends.  Having a kind and giving heart, she loved to entertain, celebrating both special and everyday occasions with everyone. Her love of Minnesota was so sweet – from her young life in their hometown of Trimont, her life with Dean and their kids in Bloomington, and many special times in Grand Marais throughout all her years.  Dean and Kathryn were married nearly 66 years, modeling care and love for all to see.  Kathryn felt fortunate to have her immediate family so close and wanted everyone together as much as possible.  She used to say, “I love my children, but I really love my grandchildren.”  There could not have been a more special grandmother.

Kathryn served at all the Methodist churches she attended throughout her life.  Even when she was in high school, she was teaching Sunday school to younger students.  This joy of teaching children on Sundays continued for many decades.  Kathryn sang in church choirs with Dean and many dear friends for over 55 years. She participated in and led many women’s groups, multiple church committees, and various Bible studies. 

We will be joining together to remember and celebrate Kathryn on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Hillcrest United Methodist Church, 9100 Russell Ave, S., Bloomington, MN.  The memorial service is at 10:00 AM with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM.  There will be coffee and donuts served after the service.  A private family burial will follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

The family asks that, if so desired, memorial donations be made in her name to either the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/) or the American Heart Association to further research for a cure. (https://www.heart.org/)