Hilda Baergen

Music was the joy of Hilda Helene Regehr's life. She was born January 18, 1935 in Hythe, Alberta; the third of eight siblings. She was raised on a farm near Tofield. Hilda began playing piano for services and choir at the Tofield Mennonite Church when she was a teenager.

Music found her love. Hilda met Neil Baergen at church- he was a part-time choir director. They were married October 30, 1955 and moved to his farm in Ryley. They were deeply in love for 60 years.

Music was her consolation. Her first 3 sons were born in Tofield. Twins Barry and Bryant only survived a day. Douglas was next. At age five he developed cancer and passed away. They moved off the farm to Ponoka for Neil to enroll in Psychiatric nursing. Ralph, Carolyn and Kathleen were born there. Then the family moved to Edmonton as Neil became a social worker.

Music was her vocation. Hilda taught piano where ever they were living. The next moves were to Smokey Lake, Athabasca, Stettler, and Red Deer. Hilda also worked in clerical roles for the Red Deer Social Services office.

Music was her strength. Neil was diagnosed with a brain tumor and had extensive treatment. This left him unable to work, and his health declined. Hilda was diagnosed with breast cancer twice. She developed lung disease which slowed her but she was always ready to sit down at the piano and say, "Let's sing something."

Music was still her joy. Hilda loved volunteering at seniors' hymn sings and at the Red Deer Regional hospital for sing alongs. She played for many funerals where her music provided consolation.

The God of music never failed her. Hilda's deep faith in God was reflected in the words of hymns, and they were a source of strength and comfort. Music was the language that Hilda used to worship, praise and serve her Lord.