On February 13, 1931, Raleigh and Mary (Heinrich) Albrecht welcomed their firstborn, Fern Mae, on the family farm near Fairfax, Minnesota. She was soon joined by her siblings, Stern and Shirley–all born on the same family farm.

Fern enjoyed her school years and graduated from Fairfax High School in 1949. She had a zest for roller-skating, dancing, and especially playing her saxophone. Her passion for medicine led her to continue her education at the New Ulm Union Hospital School of Practical Nursing, where she graduated in 1950 as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Life wasn’t all studies. During this time, Fern met a special person who would become her husband, De Lloyd “DF” Hillmann. Their first date was a dance at the Essig Ballroom, and their personal romance and love of dancing continued throughout their 74 years of marriage. They were married on September 27, 1950–and on their wedding day, DF received his draft notice.

Fern and DF farmed in Moltke Township near Gibbon. While DF served in the Army, Fern divided her time between their farm and military base towns in Washington, Maryland, and Nevada. Their family grew as they welcomed their children: Jerry, Allan, Kay, and Rita.

Fern worked alongside DF to create a warm, cozy home. She was always ready to drop what she was doing to help load livestock, drop a pin in a trailer, or drive equipment in the field–even when DF returned home with surprise purchases like a neighbor’s farm, Fern stood beside him with unwavering support.

A gifted seamstress, Fern eagerly tackled new clothing patterns for her family and filled their home with handmade pillow covers and blankets. Gardening was a beloved pastime, and she took great joy in entertaining friends and family. She was the kindest hostess–no one ever left hungry–and always had a deck of cards ready and a bottle of Mogen David wine on hand.

Her life was filled with music, dancing, bowling, fishing, reading, and a lifelong desire to learn something new. She played her saxophone in The Uncommon Band of Renown well into her 80s. Fern and DF traveled to Russia, China, Germany, and nearly all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska.

Eventually, Fern and DF moved to Gibbon and spent 40 years splitting their time between Texas and Minnesota. In Texas, Fern especially enjoyed fresh oranges, making spicy pretzels and finger rolls, hosting guests, and soaking in the warm weather. For the last three years, she resided at Southview Living Center in Gibbon.

With life’s joy also comes sorrow. Fern was preceded in death by her son, Allan; daughter, Kay; and daughters-in-law, Kathy and Linda. She is survived by her devoted husband, DF; children Jerry (Lisa) and Rita (Kevin); and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who cherish the lasting imprint Fern left on their lives and the many ways she blessed us all.

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