Wilma Bernidine (Bethke) Hutchins was born June 18, 1925, in Albert Lea, the daughter of William and Laura (Sibilrud) Bethke. A lifetime resident of Albert Lea, she attended Albert Lea schools and was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and the Eagles Club.

On May 11, 1946, Wilma married Willard Hutchins at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. She was a wonderful homemaker, raising her six children. Wilma enjoyed bingo, going to different casinos and going on bus trips with her friends to Branson. Her favorite place was sitting on her porch with her family and going to Edgewater Park for picnics. Most recently Wilma was living at Thorne Crest Senior Living Community, where she made a wonderful friend, Nancy Laite.

Wilma died Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016, at Thorne Crest Senior Living Community.

Wilma is survived by her children Bruce Hutchins, Sherry (John) Johnson, Deanna (Greg) Mason, Greg Hutchins, Roxy (Frank) Nellis and Laureen Lembke; 15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; four great-great- grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Willard; sister, Gladys (Raymond) Evenson; brother, Les (Mary Boone) Bethke; and daughter-in- law, Cindy Hutchins.

Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com. Private family services will take place at a later date. Memorial cards can be sent to Roxy Nellis, 1020 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 56007.