Nelda Bertha Hildebrand

Nelda Bertha Hildebrand passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024, at 85 years of age. She was grateful to spend the last five years in Columbus, Ohio with her beloved daughter and family. Nelda was preceded in death by her father Nels Krogh, mother Dolores Krogh, and son Harold Hildebrand. She is survived by her sister Ida (Larry), daughter Dolores (Tom) Burlison, her grandchildren Byron, Jason and Alex and many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Nelda spent her youth in the Pacific Northwest, relocating with her young family to Southern California in the 1960’s. While raising two children, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in data processing, a cutting-edge field for a woman at that time. Nelda worked for multiple aerospace and banking firms, ending her career as a senior internal auditor for Washington Mutual. When not working, Nelda wanted nothing more than to spend time having fun with her children and grandchildren. She loved to read, especially enjoying biographies of notable people and learning about their motivations and philosophies. Nelda also enjoyed daily walks in her neighborhood and at the nearby Southern California beach, and all things cats! From childhood, Nelda learned a special talent for sewing and tailoring, which benefited many. Nelda was a gentle but vibrant woman who loved her family and friends profoundly. She met the world with a unique combination of equal parts independence and compassion. Being less interested in material things, she lived life on her own terms — simply, sometimes rebelliously, and always with a unique artistic flair. She managed a lifelong, challenging health condition with strength, and she remained a graceful beauty, effortlessly, through old age. Nelda suffered great losses in her life, but never gave up her sense of optimism and anticipation of a new day and another breakfast – which was her favorite meal! Above all, Nelda was naturally and generously uplifting to others through her language of acceptance and encouragement. Nelda will be greatly missed by all who knew her. According to her wishes, Nelda’s ashes will be sprinkled over the Rocky Mountains. Rather than a memorial service or flowers, she asked that others think of her with a smile when crossing the Rockies.