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Karin Helene Hillberg
02-04-2025

Karin Helene Hillberg (Bressel), aged 87 years and 24 days, passed away, undefeated in life, on February 4th, 2025 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. She was surrounded by her husband, all 11 of her children and various extended family members until the moment her earthly body had finished it’s work and her spirit moved onto a more glorious place.

Karin was born on January 11th, 1938 in the Angerburg district of a Unified Germany to Kurt and Helene Bressel (Kemmerzel). Karin’s strength of character, resilience and never give up attitude were developed early in life. She was born into what was to be a Country in rebuild following WWII. At a young age Karin, her Mother and Brother found their way around the country where they ended up living with Karin’s Grandmother. Post war, Karin, Mother and Sister were reunited with Karin’s Father. Karin attended Primary, Secondary and Vocational Schools in Germany and she settled into a job as a secretary. Many were the stories of growing up at that tough time as a child, rebuilding and the fun had in her early adult life in Germany.

Karin Met Raymond Hillberg in Germany during his enlistment in the US Army, Airborne Division. They were introduced by Raymond’s sister who was also serving in Germany at that time. After a short time and a long ship passage to the United States, Karin was united in Marriage with Raymond on April 7th , 1960. They built their life and home in Sioux Falls, SD. Karin had a memory like a steel trap. She was a living history book in many ways. She loved reading, typing letters to family members, friends and loved ones, swimming, sun bathing, shopping and Elvis…. so much so that her youngest child is named Aaron Elvis Hillberg.

Karin was always in style and lit up the room at any event she attended. Most of all, Karin loved her Husband, Raymond, all of her 11 children, and her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. And all loved and respected her in return.

Karin is survived by her Husband: Raymond L. Hillberg and all 11 of her children: Ina (Bill) Donat of Waubay, SD. Silvia (Doug) McCuddin of Sioux Falls, SD. Dean (Teresa) Hillberg of Colton, SD. Robin (Wayne) Fulker of Sioux Falls, SD. Virginia (Jeff) Smook of Sioux Falls, SD. Alan (Paige) Hillberg of Sioux Falls, SD. Steven (Khrystal) Hillberg of Fairfield, CA. Jennifer (Aaron) Cooper of Sioux Falls, SD. Machelle (Essam) Oly of Chanhassen, MN. David (Kamra) Hillberg of Sioux Falls, SD. And Aaron (Lindsey) Hillberg of Sioux Falls, SD; as well as many Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.

Karin was preceded in death by her parents Kurt and Helene, Brother Robert, Sister Gertrude, Granddaughter Renee Smook and Grandson Ryder Hillberg.

Karin is greatly loved and missed by anyone whose life she touched. We love you Mom.

Fly with the angels!

A private family and extended family Mass of Christian Burial will be held. Service information provided by Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, SD.

………….And Karin Liked Flowers. Just Sayin.