Hilda Grace Ebbinghaus

Hilda Grace Ebbinghaus, age 86, passed away on October 13, 2026 at her home under the loving care of her family. Born in Highland Park, Michigan on May 4, 1940, she was the daughter of Edmond and Helen (Warren) Kapla. In all the seasons of her life, Hilda was known for steady devotion to those she loved, a faithful spirit, and a quiet resilience that carried her through both joy and hardship with dignity.

Hilda married Carl J. Ebbinghaus on September 14, 1957 in Detroit Michigan. Carl preceded her in death on November 25, 1999. Hilda was also preceded in death by two sons, Lee E. Ebbinghaus in 2013, Carl Jay Ebbinghaus in 2018 and nephew, Christopher Kapla.

Hilda is survived by her son, Raymond (Teddi) Ebbinghaus of Albion; her sister, Carla Highe of Albion; and her brother, David Kapla of Melvindale, MI. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Conner Ebbinghaus, Nathan Ebbinghaus, Alexandria Reynolds, Sean (Bitzy) Nagle, Marissa (J.D.) Hemminger, and Ashley Nagle; 9 great grandchildren; and her nieces and nephews: Edward (Chelsea Highe, Veronica (Rob) Gardella, David (Dana) Kapla II, Steven Kapla, Shannon Kapla (Christopher’s wife), Jeremy (Heather) Kapla, along with many great nieces, great nephews, extended family and friends.

A lifelong hard worker and a loyal presence in the lives of others, Hilda gave generously of her time and energy to the Albion community. She served as co-director of Forks Senior Center and volunteered in many ways, including serving in many capacities with Festival of the Forks and other Fundraising Events in Albion. She also served as Lieutenant Governor of her Kiwanis Club, and while her boys were growing up, she was a Den Leader for Scouts—always ready to support, organize, and encourage.

Hilda found joy in simple, meaningful pursuits and took pride in doing for others. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, making hats and dishcloths that blessed many throughout the community and beyond. She loved camping, even taking her young boys on a month-long camping adventure out West—an experience that reflected her steadfast spirit and willingness to meet life with determination.

After the loss of her husband in 1999, Hilda continued forward with notable strength, meeting the demands of daily life with perseverance and self-reliance. She loved to cook and truly enjoyed gardening and mowing her lawn, taking great pride in her ability to accomplish things on her own.

According to her wishes, Hilda will be cremated and her ashes will be interred at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek with her beloved late husband Carl. A short committal service will be held at Ft. Custer (time and date to be announced soon)

Memorial contributions may be made to Oaklawn Hospice or to the Forks Senior Center.

Please feel encouraged to share photos, condolences and memories with the family through this online guest book.