Lila A. (Hermanson) Solberg
Lila Ann (Hermanson) Solberg, 86, of Whitehall, gracefully departed this life at midnight, Monday, April 29, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Lila was born July 3, 1937, in Whitehall, the daughter of Helmer and Gladys (Hagen) Hermanson. Raised on a dairy farm in Welch Coulee, she embraced the rustic and simple beauty of farm life, participating in farm chores like driving the tractor, baling hay and caring for the cows. Her educational journey began at Brookside Country School, a facility without modern conveniences like electricity and plumbing. She continued her studies at Blair High School, where she was honored and humbled to be crowned homecoming queen. Sewing became one of her passions, and she and her high school friends enjoyed crafting their dresses for special events. The excursions to and from the lively dances at Club Midway and the Lakeshore Pavilion in Hixton involved lots of laughter and a little mischief.
Following her graduation from Blair High School in 1955, Lila began a life of adventure and service. She wed Wallace Solberg of Blair and accompanied him on military assignments to Arkansas and Germany. This afforded the opportunity to explore the landscapes of Norway, France, Sweden and Switzerland, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Upon returning to Whitehall, Lila dedicated herself to various roles within the community. She worked at the Whitehall Clinic, Trempealeau County Courthouse and eventually the Montgomery Ward store while her youngest was still in a stroller. She actively engaged in volunteer activities at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church and as a Cub Scout Den Mother. She found immense joy in supporting her children’s endeavors, whether cheering from the bleachers at sporting events or nurturing their academic pursuits.
Following life-changing events, she paved her own path forward and pursued her passion for Nursing. She attended WWTC in La Crosse, after which she became one of Arcadia’s first Certified Nursing Assistants. Nursing became a calling for her, as she exhibited unwavering compassion and dedication to those in her care. Her commitment to excellence led her to further her education at Winona Technical College, ultimately earning her LPN certification and serving at Tri-County Memorial Hospital, where she provided comfort and support to countless individuals in need. She was often requested by name when it came to administering medications by injection because, as one elderly gentleman put it, “you’re a good sticker.”
The music of Neil Diamond was where she found solace and inspiration while attending nursing school. She became a fan for life and among one of her fondest memories was attending one of Neil’s concerts in the Twin Cities with her daughter, Lisa. Lila also was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan. She rarely missed a football game, eagerly marking her calendar with each season’s schedule.
Upon retiring in 2005, Lila reveled in the opportunity to spend time with her children and grandchildren, adding laughter and song to daily activities. She enjoyed traveling to La Crosse, to Stevens Point, and the state of Washington, with sister Jeanne accompanying her on a few visits. She embraced life’s simple pleasures, such as finding joy in nature walks, tasting a berry or two along the way. She loved flowers, especially lilac bushes which reminded her of her quiet days on the farm. An avid reader, Lila loved books on plants and gardening. She also liked to read and discuss historical events and various religions. Her book collection was robust and diverse, as well as her appetite for learning. Described as “young at heart,” Lila approached each day with humor, optimism and resilience. Happiness to her was driving the country roads, exploring new terrain, and a table conversation with a warm cup of coffee and a slice of pie. Simply sitting around the table and chatting the evening away was a wonderful joy.
Lila is survived by her daughters: Lisa Strange of La Crosse, WI, and Wendy (Kort) Korthuis-Smith of Whidbey Island, WA; her cherished son, Wade (Jackie) Solberg of Stevens Point, WI; adored grandchildren: Jacob Strange (Anna) of Appleton, Grace Korthuis-Smith of Spokane, WA, and Claire Korthuis-Smith of Oak Harbor, WA; as well as her dear sisters: Jeanne Hermanson of La Crosse, WI, and Harriet (Larry) Hessler of West Salem. She is also survived by nephews and nieces: Terry, Julie, Joan and Mark (Thorson); Allen Dean and Denise (Hermanson), and Duane, Rod and Lamond (Hessler) and all of their families.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Helmer and Gladys Hermanson; her brother, Orland Hermanson; and her sister, Alta Thorson.
A celebration of Lila’s life was held Tuesday, May 7, 2024, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m., followed by a service at 6:00 p.m., at Jack Funeral Home in Whitehall. Mr. Scott Brown officiated.
Lila’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Trempealeau County Housing Authority staff, St. Croix Hospice who were a blessing, and to the Whitehall Fire Department, Tri-County Ambulance and Gundersen Tri-County Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Trempealeau County Humane Society.
