Vicki L. Hilberg

Vicki Laura Hilberg, born Vicki Laura Arnold, age 77, of East Wenatchee, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026.Vicki was born on December 12, 1948, in Wenatchee, Washington, to Sadie "Glenmary" Arnold and Arlee Walter Arnold. During her childhood, her family moved frequently before eventually settling in Dryden, Washington, where she developed the strong roots and love for community that would define her life. Education was both Vicki's profession and her calling. She dedicated more than 27 years to teaching students throughout the Wenatchee Valley and Upper Valley communities. During her distinguished career, she taught at Peshastin-Dryden Elementary School, Cascade High School, Palisades School, and Wenatchee High School. In 1974, Vicki became the first bilingual teacher in the Upper Valley and helped establish the ESL and migrant education programs in the Cascade School District, opening doors and opportunities for countless students and families. Her influence as an educator extended far beyond the classroom, touching generations of young people through her compassion, encouragement, and dedication. On June 19, 1987, Vicki married the love of her life, Lynn Hilberg. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. They were just days away from celebrating their 39th wedding anniversary. Their greatest joy came with the birth of their daughter, Carleigh Jayne Smith (Hilberg), on February 23, 1990. Vicki loved being a mother, and Carleigh was truly her pride and joy. Later, becoming a grandmother brought even greater happiness to her life. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and delighted in watching them grow. Vicki found joy in life's simple blessings. She loved painting, singing, gardening, being grandma, and spending time with family and friends. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she faithfully attended Foothills Foursquare Church in Wenatchee for the past 34 years. Her church family was a source of great friendship, encouragement, and fellowship. To know Vicki was to love her. She possessed a radiant smile, a gentle spirit, and a kindness that touched everyone she met. Whether through her teaching, her friendships, her faith, or her family, she made people feel seen, valued, and loved. Vicki is survived by her devoted husband, Lynn Hilberg; daughter, Carleigh Smith; son-in-law, Joel Smith; and her beloved grandchildren: Chase Smith, Elias Smith, Maci Smith, and Matilda Smith. She is also survived by her brother, Randy and Evelyn Arnold; her sisters: Debbie Arnold and Glenda Phillips; brother, Eddie Arnold; and many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sadie "Glenmary" and Arlee Arnold; grandparents; and several beloved aunts and uncles. A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Foothills Foursquare Church, 315 S. Mission Street, Wenatchee, Washington. Visitation is at 9:30 and the service will begin at 10:00 a.m. It will be followed by a potluck reception. A graveside burial service will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Cashmere Cemetery. Vicki will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Though her family grieves her absence, they find comfort in knowing she is with her Lord and Savior, restored and at peace. Her legacy of faith, love, service, and kindness will live on through the many lives she touched. She was loved beyond words, and her grandchildren—whom she adored—already miss their beloved Grandma dearly.

Vicki L. Hilberg

December 12, 1948 - June 9, 2026