Wilma Lou (Mills) Hilts, Hansen, 92, of Missouri Valley, passed away Sunday Jan. 9, 2022, at Azria Health Longview Nursing Home. Lou was born Jan. 23, 1929, in Akron, to Chester and Olive (Vermillion) Mills. She was the second of five children, with two brothers and two sisters. She was a huge asset to her father on the farm, outworking even her brothers. She attended and graduated from Jefferson High School in South Dakota in 1947, where she was secretary of the Student Council. She participated in the first year of women’s basketball at the school and was captain of her team. She was married to Harry Hilts in Akron, that same year, 1947. Together they had six children whom they raised in Scranton, followed by eleven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Lou then moved to Missouri Valley in 1970, and had her youngest son, Chris, who adds three grandchildren and a few more great-grandchildren. She married George Hansen on May 2, 1984, blending their families giving her four more children, along with more grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Lou was a Dietary Manager at Community Memorial Hospital for 35 years. Lou and George enjoyed going to the Eagles Club and dancing to old country music. She enjoyed being largely involved in the kitchen and many other areas of the Eagles Club. Lou also never thought twice about being a helping hand to those around her including her being 80 and taking care of 90-year-olds. She also loved watching her children and grandchildren grow and accomplish many of life’s milestones. She walked through life with a smile on her face and optimist about the future.
Lou was proceeded in death by her parents; husband, George; and her children, Ken, Don, and Sue.
She is survived by four children, Tom (Connie), Cathy, Bruce, and Chris (Tina) along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with her brothers, Don and Milo; and her sister Ann.
Visitation was Friday, Jan. 14, 2022, at Hennessey Funeral Home in Missouri Valley. The burial will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Cancer Association or Alzheimer’s Association in Lou’s name.
Arrangements by Hennessey Funeral Home. www.hennesseyonline.com
