Hildegard Burton died Oct. 25, 2014, peacefully at Careage of Whidbey at the age of 81.

She was born Aug. 29, 1933, in the Bronx, N.Y., to William and Dora, the second of two children. At the age of 3, Hilda went to Germany to visit relatives, and, while there, the war broke out. She experienced her childhood in the midst of wartime and bombing and did not return to the United States until the age of 13.

She had been educated in Germany. She did not speak English when she returned. She lived in an orphanage until her sister and husband returned to the United States and took her in.

Hilda married and had two girls, Carole and Elaine. On June 27, 1971, she married Dusty Burton and inherited his family, and they remained married for 43 years.

Hilda loved being around people, taking walks and just being outside enjoying family, friends, animals and nature. Her passion for the music of Glenn Miller kept her jitterbugging.

Although she was a loving person, she could surely cuss you out in two different languages, accompanied by hugs and kisses.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Our eternal thanks to the staff and workers from Careage of Whidbey.

Family suggests donations can be made to Careage of Whidbey Memorial Fund, 311 Northeast Third St., Coupeville, WA 98239