Mathilda "Hilda" Douglas

Mathilda “Hilda” Douglas (née Knauer), age 77, of Waukesha, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Hilda was born on June 1, 1947, to Paul and Klara Knauer. She graduated from Solomon Juneau High School. On August 12, 1967, she married the love of her life, Russel Douglas. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family and love, raising two daughters, Carrie and Amy. Hilda had an adventurous spirit and a passion for life.

She loved to travel, exploring new places and cultures. Hilda enjoyed the performing arts and loved sharing that experience with her family and friends. Music filled the home, and she loved all things Elvis. In her spare time, she found joy in knitting, crocheting, reading, and cooking—her home was always filled with the warmth of her creations and the irresistible aroma of her meals. She was a pillar of grace, compassion, and affection, offering a comforting voice and a gentle touch to those around her. Her unwavering support and kindness left a forever lasting mark on all who knew her.

Hilda is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Russel; her daughters, Carrie (Chris) Martin and Amy (Justin) Douglas-Gartzke; and her cherished grandchildren, Chantel (Mark), Ethan, Cienna, and Isabelle. She is also remembered fondly by extended family and dear friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Klara Knauer; her brothers, John and Paul Knauer; and her sister, Liz Rotaro.

Services to honor and celebrate Hilda’s life will be held at Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home (237 N. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188) on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM and continue until the start of services at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Hilda’s name to the American Cancer Society, a cause close to her heart. 

Hilda’s love, warmth, and generosity will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her