Lilly McMacken, 80, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at Edgewood Vista Assisted Living Center in Brookings. Born on May 1, 1944, in Altamont, South Dakota, to Harley and Florence Kruse, Lilly grew up in Big Stone City and carried with her the values of kindness, strength, and love that shaped her life.
She was united in marriage to William “Bill” McMacken on Nov. 17, 1962, in Ortonville, Minnesota. They were married for 54 years before Bill passed away in March 2016. Together, Lilly and Bill shared a passion for adventure, insisting on yearly vacations and cultivating a deep love for camping. They spent many memorable winters in Lake Havasu, Arizona, and Bradenton, Florida enjoying the sunshine and building countless happy memories.
Lilly worked at 3M in Brookings for more than 25 years, where she developed long-lasting friendships and was deeply cherished by her work family. She retired in 2002 but continued to keep in touch with many of her colleagues, maintaining those close connections throughout her life.
She spent the last eight years of her life at Edgewood Vista Assisted Living Center. Lilly kept everyone there on their toes with her singing, dancing, and wonderful sense of humor, always bringing joy and laughter to the residents and staff alike.
A longtime member of First Lutheran Church, Lilly found joy in attending services, especially with her family. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished the moments spent worshiping alongside her loved ones.
She was devoted to her family and often hosted gatherings, filling her home with warmth and love. Lilly adored her grandchildren and always cherished spending time with them whenever possible. A talented quilter, she spent much of her spare time crafting beautiful quilts for her children and grandchildren, leaving behind cherished keepsakes.
She is survived by her children: Scott (Lynette) McMacken of Brookings; Craig (Suzee) McMacken of Brookings; Billy (Carley) McMacken of Sycamore, Illinois; Kristi (Tim) Rusten of Brandon; and Christopher (Sammie) McMacken of Minneapolis. She is also survived by her 15 beloved grandchildren: Kaylee, Bryce, Ryan, Ally, Josh, Jon, Sam, Joey, Thomas, Camden, Kendall, Mason, Abbi, Jordyn, and Tyler, as well as her three great-grandchildren, Nathan, Cambri, and Scout.
Lilly is also survived by her siblings: Evie (Bruce) Swigerd; Donna (Kenny) Adolphson; Roger Kruse; Bobby Kruse; and Velda Yberra; sister-in-law Karen Ellis; brother and sister-in-law Chuck and Peg McMacken; and sister-in-law Marcia McMacken. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harley and Florence Kruse; her husband, Bill McMacken; her daughter, Cathy Harrenga; and her siblings, Linda Kruse, Karen St. Clair, and Shirley Finberg.
Lilly will be remembered for her compassionate spirit, her dedication to family, and her deep faith. Her presence brought light to every room she entered, and her legacy will live on through those she loved.
Although floral gifts are appreciated, the McMacken family suggests that donations be made to the First Lutheran Cemetery in Brookings. The McMacken family would also like to thank the staff of Edgewood Vista for their exceptional care of Lilly during her time at Edgewood.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings at 11 a.m. A time of fellowship will be held at the funeral home immediately following the service. Visitation will be held the evening prior, Friday, Sept. 27, at Eidsness Funeral Home from 5. until 7 p.m. A private burial will take place at First Lutheran Cemetery in Brookings.
