Gladys Hill Saragosa

Gladys Hill Saragosa (Ogimaakwe, Boss Woman of the Kingfisher clan), 82, of Red Lake, MN, passed away on July 9, 2024 in Bemidji, MN. Gladys was born on February 21, 1942 in Red Lake, MN, to John and Rose Hill.  Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing comfort in adversity and enriching moments of joy. She graduated from Red Lake High School in 1960 and continued her education at Haskell Institute in Lawrence, KS, until 1962.

Gladys enlisted in the Army on February 14, 1962, where she proudly served her country with the Women of Army Corps (W.A.C.).  She was stationed in Fort McClellan, AL, and then Fort Sam in Houston, TX, where she met her husband. Gladys was honorably discharged as a Specialist E-4 on October 23, 1964.

Gladys and Tom married in Texas on September 25, 1964. They renewed their wedding vows in holy matrimony on February 21, 1977 in Ontario, California. They raised 4 children in California and moved to Red Lake, MN, in 1991. In 2001, they adopted their son, Josh Hill. They were married for 45 years before Tom’s passing.

Gladys lived a full life, enjoying sewing and scrapbooking. She loved music, dancing, going to the casino and playing Bingo. She liked watching game shows and Dancing with the Stars. Her greatest joy was attending her children’s and grandchildren’s events and celebrating their accomplishments.

Gladys was an amazing woman who lived a life filled with love, family and service. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, humor and generosity. Her legacy will live on through her family and friends for years to come.

Gladys was proceeded in death by her husband, Thomas Saragosa, Sr; her sons Tom Jr and Steven Saragosa; her parents John and Rose Hill; brothers Frank, George “Bunker”, Billy, John Jr, and Henry Hill; sisters Frances Hill and Mabel Kingbird; and several nieces and nephews.

Gladys is survived by her daughters Deanna Saragosa of Bismarck, ND, and Ramona (Tyler) Beets of Alton, IL; son Josh Hill; grandson Jordan Saragosa of Bismarck, ND; granddaughters Casey Lovsness of Lawrence, KS, Riley and Allie Beets of Alton, IL; sisters Rosalie and Delores Hill of Red Lake; and numerous nieces and nephews, who held a special place in her heart.

The wake will start at 3 PM on Friday, July 12, 2024 at the New Red Lake Center and continue until the service at 1 PM on Saturday, July 13, 2024 with Fr. John Christianson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Sheldon Hill, Merwin Hill, Mindy Hill, Michael Hill, Muriel Thunder, Vincent Hill, Rachel Hill, Stan Hernandez and Rich Zaragoza. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Arrangements provided by Whispering Pines Funeral & Cremation Service of Northern Minnesota.

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