Tributes

Carl Evald Hillberg was born on September 25, 1922 at the original Emanuel Hospital on Canal Drive to Simon and Hanna Swanson Hillberg. He grew up on the outskirts of Turlock helping on the family farm. He was a good student and particularly excelled at math. When his math instructor decided to leave teaching and open an accounting firm, he told Carl he’d give him a job when he finished college. Carl graduated with a degree in accounting from Modesto Junior College in the spring of 1942 and then headed to UC Berkeley. His college years were interrupted by his service in World War II. Because of his accounting skills, he was stationed in India keeping records of service members across the Pacific Theater. After completing his degree at Cal, he returned to Turlock and began his career as a CPA. He continued serving his clients until he retired in his late 70’s. There was another young employee in the office, an attractive young woman named Merlyn Miner. She was also a graduate of Turlock High, but six years younger than Carl, so their paths never crossed until then. They were married in 1950 and welcomed four children, Ron, Rob, Loren and Ann and eventually ten grandchildren who they adored. Carl and Merlyn enjoyed socializing with neighbors, church and community friends, and their bridge clubs. While they were both in good health, they were able to take many delightful trips around the United States and the world. Eventually Merlyn’s health declined, and she passed away in 2004. Over the years, Carl was very active in the community. He was elected as the Turlock City Treasurer in 8 consecutive elections, serving a total of 32 years under five different mayors from 1960 until 1992. Among his many volunteer positions, he served as president of the Turlock Rotary, president of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce, and on the board of Emanuel Hospital. In his later years, he expressed that his most satisfying achievement was negotiating the purchase of the property where Emanuel Hospital is now located. Carl was also active in his church, serving in many positions at Nazareth Lutheran Church, and later at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. In 2006, a new chapter in Carl’s life began when he married Betty Pettus. They shared many mutual friends and had a great time entertaining them in their home, as Betty was a wonderful hostess. They were also able to enjoy traveling together for several years. Carl was predeceased by his parents, sister Vera, his wife Merlyn and his great grandson Merrick. Carl is survived by his wife, Betty; his sons: Ron (Aila), Rob (Sherrill), Loren (Michele) and his daughter Ann Seitzinger (Newton), also his grandchildren, Brent Hillberg, Jeff Hillberg, Melissa Hillberg Sandoval, Isabelle Hillberg Bruns, Claire Seitzinger, Kurt Seitzinger, Joel Hillberg, Daniel Hillberg, Joslyn Hillberg Hamilton, Lynsey Hillberg and six great grandchildren. Remembrances can be made to Good Shepherd Memorial Fund (640 Minaret, Turlock 95380), United Samaritans Foundation (220 S. Broadway, Turlock 95380), Westside Ministries (950 Columbia Street, Turlock 95380), or your favorite charity. There will be a Memorial Service at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (640 Minaret, Turlock) on July 1 at 11:00 AM.

Tributes

Carl Evald Hillberg

September 25, 1922 - May 30, 2025