Loretta Katharina (Armbruster) Wilson

Loretta K. Wilson, born October 28, 1929, to Jacob and Katharina (Kerth) Armbruster in rural Trego County, Kansas, passed away on December 3, 2024, at the Jewell County Hospital ISB unit, where she had resided for the past few months. Loretta often joked that her birth on the day of the Wall Street Stock Market crash caused the event, a testament to her sharp wit and humor. The youngest of her family, Loretta was the last surviving sibling in recent years. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Christ, Ernest, and Frederick (Frits) Armbruster, and her sisters, Jenny Claycamp, Carrie Armbruster, Martha Mai, Eva Williams, Edna Weber, and Viola (Ole) Modeen. Her family persevered through the Great Depression and the dust storms of western Kansas, experiences that shaped Loretta's profound respect for her parents’ resilience and devotion. Loretta attended Trego County Schools, cherishing a memorable semester of high school spent at home helping her parents on the farm, cooking, crocheting, and doing needlework with her sister Ole. On January 26, 1951, she married James W. Wilson at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. The couple began their married life in Manhattan, Kansas, where Jim attended college, and Loretta worked in banking. She vividly recalled being rescued by boat during the Manhattan flood of 1951 and later ironing notes and cash salvaged from the bank vault. Loretta and Jim eventually settled in Mankato, Kansas, where they raised their family. They welcomed three children: Gayle Wilson, who died at birth, James William Wilson Jr., and Lynette Huntsinger. Loretta also welcomed Jim’s father, Noah Wilson, who lived with them until his passing. Loretta contributed to her community and family in countless ways. She worked at Mankato High School, First National Bank, and as a bookkeeper for Ada Hills and Hills Inc., forging a meaningful friendship with Ada. As a partner in farming and ranching with her husband, Jim, Loretta played a crucial role in the success of Wilson’s Broken Bar W Gelbvieh cattle herd. Together, they worked diligently, focusing on the growth and development of the herd. Their hard work and collaboration were instrumental in earning them induction into the American Gelbvieh Association Hall of Fame. Loretta’s meticulous record-keeping, her ability to know each animal by name, and her hands-on involvement in farm work were essential to their remarkable achievements. She delighted her family with her exceptional holiday cooking, incorporating her German heritage into both her recipes and holiday celebrations. The Belsnickel was a family favorite tradition, eagerly anticipated by everyone each year. Loretta grew and tended roses, a task she took great joy in because her husband loved them. Prior to losing her vision, Loretta worked as a bookkeeper and tax preparer for Gail and Darrell Miller. Despite losing much of her eyesight in middle life, she remained undeterred. She was ahead of her time in adapting to computers, recognizing how technology could help her continue working despite her low vision. With patience, determination, and a willingness to embrace change, she continued her work. Loretta also managed Wilson’s Insurance Agency, primarily a crop insurance business, and mentored her granddaughter’s husband, Caleb Mahin, in the field—a legacy she was proud to see him carry on. Loretta refused to let her physical limitations define her. She crocheted by touch and started the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Mankato Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she was a dedicated member. Her faith and creativity inspired others and enriched her community. She is survived by her son Jake Wilson (Sherry) of Formoso, KS, and her daughter Lynette Huntsinger (John) of Mankato, KS; her grandchildren Shanna Freeman (Christopher) of Wakefield, KS, Danny Huntsinger (Tina) of Olathe, KS, and Gayle Mahin (Caleb) of Formoso, KS; and her great-grandchildren Noah and Nicholas Freeman, Lela and Weston Huntsinger, and Drake, Hazel, Warren, and Sloan Mahin. Loretta held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews, who were all dear to her. Loretta’s quick wit and unwavering love will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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