Hilda M. McFadden

HILDA M. McFADDEN June 4, 1923 – September 10, 2019 Hilda M. McFadden died of natural causes at the age of 96 on September 10, 2019 at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home, 2001 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa 50702. Hilda was born June 4, 1923 in West Coplay, Pennsylvania, to Austrian-Hungarian immigrants Johann (John) and Rosina (Rose) Frisch. Hilda’s father was a Master Carpenter and built a beautiful brick house for his wife and large family. When Hilda was a teenager, she worked in a shirt factory, a cigar factory, and then as a nanny in New York City. She met handsome Albert A. McFadden when the Army stationed him in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He was smitten with the lovely, feisty Hilda and they were married just two weeks later, on May 3, 1943. They were married for 44 years, until Albert’s death in 1987. Albert built her a home at 552 W. Donald Street near his parents, Earl and Pansy. Hilda was affectionately known as “Rusty”; a nickname Albert gave his wife for her dark auburn red hair and her quick temper. She became the matriarch of her five children, 15 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. Each new grandchild was welcomed and loved as they brought her great enjoyment. Everyone loved and respected Grandma for her self-sacrificing spirit, hard work, and hospitality. Her Sunday dinners were famous for the best fried chicken ever, tender roast meat, real mashed potatoes, gravy, and more! Grandma’s kitchen was always “open” with babysitting services free of charge, as taking care of her family was the main priority and interest in her life. Hilda was preceded in death by her parents; 17 siblings; her husband Albert; three beloved sons, Dennis (Cedar Falls, IA), LeRoy (Tripoli/Des Moines, IA), and Timothy (Waterloo, IA). She was also preceded by three great-grandchildren. Hilda is survived by: Two daughters: Linda Schuler of Waterloo, IA, and Vicki Koepke of Cedar Falls, IA. 15 grandchildren: (Dennis’ children) - Denise Bigger, Michelle Elenz, Stephanie Gage, & Albert McFadden (LeRoy’s children) - Christine DiDominicus, Steven McFadden, & Karen Bradley (Linda’s children) - Andrea Ramos, Erica Goetsch, & Matthew Schuler (Vicki’s children) - Chloe Pryce, Amanda Koepke, & Caleb Koepke (Timothy’s children) - Jody McFadden & Nicholas McFadden In addition, 33 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren survive her. Hilda was a strong woman who lived a long, healthy, fulfilled life despite cancer and Alzheimer’s. She will be deeply missed, but always remembered!!! A “Celebration of Life” will be arranged in the near future to give family and friends an opportunity to share our good memories together.

Hilda M. McFadden

June 4, 1923 - September 10, 2019