Funeral Mass was celebrated for Hilda Koelling, 96, of Sullivan, MO, at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 7, 2016 at Holy Martyrs of Japan Catholic Church with burial to follow at Dutch Hill Cemetery, Sullivan, MO.
Visitation was from 4-8 p.m. Sunday evening, at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.
Hilda Marie was born on November 16, 1919 in Bourbon, MO to the late Joe and Emelia (Jost) Bindner. She taught at Three Mile School for three years. She then enjoyed working a Paramount Cap in Bourbon for four years. Hilda went to Paso, WA, and was united in marriage to Earl Koelling of Japan, MO, who was in the Navy, stationed there until October 1944. She worked in the W.A.C. dormitory at Richmond, WA for one year, then Earl was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1945. They came back to Missouri for a short time; Earl worked at the St. Louis Airport and Hilda at Emerson Electric. They moved back to the Japan area where they both worked in the Japan Store. Hilda worked in the store until 1977 when she retired due to her health. Even after retirement, she retained her spunky attitude and energy, always having several projects that needed to be accomplished. Family and friends were her first priority. She loved company and everyone had to sample some of her cooking and special bakery desserts. Hilda and her circle of friends were always ready for a spirited pinochle game. The enjoyed many a game over the years. She had a strong faith and was a member of Holy Martyrs of Japan Catholic Church where she regularly attended and participated in church activities. Hilda’s lawn was always manicured and she enjoyed her flowers and gardening. She was fortunate to be able to live almost all her life at her home on Highway H and attend to all her own affairs.
Hilda passed away on Thursday, November 3, 2016 at Life Care Center in Sullivan.
She is survived by her son; Gary Koelling of Union, MO, and his special friend; Marilyn Beanblossom of Washington, MO, brother and sister in law; Norris and Lucille Koelling; nieces; Karen Sappington and Cheryl (Jean) Koelling; nephews; Ronald and Robert (Bob) Bindner, other relatives and many friends.
Along with her parents, Hilda was preceded in death by her husband, Earl on November 2, 1997 and son, Steven Koelling on June 8, 2011, one brother and sister in law; Frank and Rose Bindner and one sister in infancy; Catherine Bindner.
Masses to Holy Martyrs Catholic Church or Memorials to Dutch Hill Cemetery are appreciated.
All arrangements were the care of the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan, MO.