Hilda Glotzbach Neumann was born on September 8, 1939, to Karl Glotzbach and Katharina Kunkel in Frankfurt, Germany. Her journey took a significant turn at the tender age of 13 when she immigrated to the United States following the passing of her beloved mother. It was during this time that her sister, Evelyn, lovingly embraced her, raising her with all the affection and support one could hope for.
Hilda was not just an individual; she embodied community spirit and service. A lifetime member of American Legion #121, she held various esteemed positions, including Sergeant of Arms, unit president, district president, chaplain, and district chaplain. Her commitment to honoring veterans extended to her membership in #2148 VFW, where she also served as chaplain. Additionally, Hilda devoted countless hours volunteering at the VA hospital and dedicated over 30 years to the Memorials to Veterans’ Association, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Hilda’s infectious spirit touched everyone around her. She was the epitome of warmth and kindness—never meeting a stranger, and consistently the brightest spark in any gathering. Children were particularly drawn to her, finding in her an unwavering source of love and affection. To those who cherished her, she was “the candle in the cake,” “Santa’s gift in our sack,” and “an angel in our midst.”
Her passions were diverse; from camping and dancing to music and playing dominoes, Hilda embraced life with joy. Yet, it was bingo that truly set her heart alight. Her laughter and zest for life created memories that will linger in the hearts of her family forever.
As we mourn the loss of our very special aunt, we take solace in knowing we were immensely fortunate to call her family. Heaven surely rejoices in welcoming such a radiant soul.
Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Karl and Katharina Kunkel; sisters, Evelyn Turnmire, Gerdie Graham, and Karola Thomas; partner, Joe Neal; nephews, Mike Turnmire and Randy Turnmire (her favorite); and her forever sister-in-law, Nora Sparkman.
She is survived by loving nieces and nephews, Phyllis Foddrell (with Greyson, Nathan, Brittany), Penny Lacina (with Dennis, Dustin, Kalin), Patsy Smith, Laura McFee, and Cory Turnmire, along with her cherished great-great-nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Hilda’s wishes, we will not hold a formal service. She once stated that she didn’t like attending funerals and she sure didn’t want to be in one. Instead, she preferred we celebrate her with Tex-Mex. So, in her memory, we ask that you go enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine and be happy knowing she is at peace.
For those wishing to honor her legacy, donations can be made to one of the organizations that she held dear to her heart (mentioned above). Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Sparkman family, Phyllis Galler and MaryAnn Hueske for their unconditional love and support.
Rest in peace, dear Hilda. Your spirit will forever light our way.
Print Obituary & Condolences
So sorry to hear of the passing of this beautiful loving caring lady. May the God wrap his arms around each of you for confronting at the hard time. Sending prayers for your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss! I am rejoicing with you that she is forever home with Jesus! Love you much Penny! God bless you in this time of grief.
My heart ♥️ goes out to you & the family. She was a loving friend. I have known her for many yrs. She was kind person. Her nieces loved her very much. She will b be truly missed.
So sorry for your loss. Condolences to your family. Hilda was indeed a sweetheart. Loved life and laughter. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️
SO VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS! HILDA WAS ALWAYS SMILING AND HAPPY EVERY TIME I SAW HER! PLEASE KNOW SHE IS RIP🙏❤️
Wrapped in the arms of our LOVING LORD for ETERNITY! Blessed with PRAYERS LOVE AND EVERLASTING PEACE! PENNY AND PHIL YALL ARE IN HEART THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS! A BEAUTIFUL LOVING TRIBUTE TO DEAREST HILDA! GOD BE WITH BOTH OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES! LASTING LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP 🩷🩷🤗🤗🙏🙏🙏🙏🥲🥰🙏 Reta ~
So sorry for your loss go Hilda was one of a kind . Always smiling & never meeting a stranger . May God comfort the family . Prayers sent to you for peace for your loss ! 🙏❤️❤️
I work in Recreation Therapy at the VA and have known Himda for awhile! She has done so much for our veterans and there will never be another person like her. I will truly miss her. And I am so sorry for your family’s loss.
I will always remember her as a delightful woman. I never saw her without a smile.My condolences to her family
Penny and Phyllis, I am heartbroken at this moment. In the last year, I have been housebound, no longer able to drive and am going thru an assundry of medical issues making it impossible for me to visit. Not one day went by that she was always in my prayers. I’m sorry for you two girls, knowing that she was as special to you as she was to me, even if it came later in life. I know that there will be an emptiness in our hearts but knowing she is with her sisters and our Lord and Savior makes it a little easier to bear. I love you my sweet auntie and until we meet again.
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Me and my husband had a lot of good times with Hilde and Joe. We would all meet at the VFW or the American Legion. Hilde was a good friend. I think we’ll have a beer with our Tex Mex. Our condolences to the family.
Mando and Gloria Garcia
Oh Hilda you will be sorely missed you were always such a joy to be around being my mothers friend from the American Legion you were always my favorite always had a big smile on your face no matter where I saw you or what situation… May you rest in peace and please tell my momma and daddy hello I miss them so much and love you all… Diane Linthicum Schrader
May you rest in peace Ms Hilda. I love you and I will truly miss you.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to the family.
I am sad to hear of Hilda’s passing. She was such a sweet person and loved by me and countless others.
Hilda was my moms best friend growing up. We all loved her so much.
I’m so sorry for your loss. As a child I remember Hilda as she worked with my mom at the glass plant and my mom spoke her name often. I know my mom considered her a good friend. I remember seeing her at parties at the club house. The obit was beautifully written. Prayers for God’s comfort during this difficult time.
So very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
Margaret Segars and Tami Segars Ott