Dear family and friends: Our sweet Hilda LeAnn Gunderson, also known as Billy Goat, Hilly, Hills, or Squeaker, unexpectedly entered heaven early morning on Monday, June 3rd, 2024.

Hilda was preceded in death by her grandparents (Gunderson), and grandfather (Johnson). She is survived by her parents, Dean Gunderson and Casandra Johnson; her siblings, Kennedy (13), Aurora (10) and Vera (6). She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents.

Hilda was born on November 17th, 2022. She was early and spent 22 days in the NICU because she had hydrocephalus. She received bravery beads for her endeavors while there, including her first surgery to have her shunt put in. Hilda proved the meaning of her name: brave warrior. She was strong and capable of overcoming any challenges that life had given her.

Hilda always was determined and so very strong - her grip was that of a lion. Grasping fingers, toys, dad's beard, and combine handles while working with dad. Her favorite toys were anything crinkly, especially her GG fairy godmother that could shake and crinkle. The Happy Song by Imogen Heap could get her to calm down from time to time. If the song didn't work Hilda's siblings making oink sounds, her paci, or playing videos may have done the trick. Anything to do with water, running water, baths, and waterparks, she absolutely loved.

Dad could get her to sleep, and mom could get her to eat. Hilda's favorite foods were sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes & gravy, and ice cream. She was not really a fan of fruits. Mom and Dad let her try all sorts of foods, even some spicy sauces!

During Hilda's short life, she had teams of early interventions with PT, vision, speech and feedings that were helping tremendously. They were very supportive and helpful, and Hilda did enjoy having them visit. She underwent surgery ordered from the feeding team for a G-Tube to help her with weight gain. Pending questions and the unknown, they went home.

Hilda was such a tremendous blessing. Her light shined on everyone and everywhere she went with her beautiful face and golden locks of hair. Hilda's whole face lit up when she smiled. She didn't do it much but when she did it was joyous. Hilda is an inspiration to others and leaves a gloriously momentous impact so great that it will continue forever in the hearts of everyone she met!

Memorial Service: 2:30 PM on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Dahl Funeral Home, 2029 Central Ave. NW, East Grand Forks, MN.

Visitation: 1 Hour Prior to the Memorial Service on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Dahl Funeral Home, East Grand Forks, MN.