Hiltrud Gabler

Hiltrud Gabler (née Hermanns), of Hilton Head Island, passed away peacefully at her home in Port Royal Plantation on July 31, 2025.

Born on July 11, 1941, in Heimbach, Germany, Hiltrud was the beloved daughter of Joseph and Maria Hermanns.  Her early years, shaped by the challenges of wartime Europe, instilled in her resilience, strong values, and a deep gratitude for family.

Hiltrud moved to the United States 42 years ago to join her husband, Karl Gabler, in Brillion, Wisconsin, where they began their life together before making their longtime home on Hilton Head Island 33 years ago. There, in the welcoming community of Port Royal Plantation, she built a rich life filled with meaningful friendships and warm memories.

A passionate and accomplished golfer, Hiltrud was a longtime member of the Port Royal Golf Club, where she played with the Ladies 18-Hole Golf Association. She was Club Champion an extraordinary 14 times and proudly represented the club on both the Port Royal Lowcountry Team and the Lowcountry Women’s Golf Association. Through the game, she built lasting friendships and was known for her competitive spirit and gracious sportsmanship.

Hiltrud was predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Karl Gabler, and by her sister, Agnes Bodeit.  She is survived by her niece Kerstin (Michael), nephew George (Simone), and grandnieces and grandnephew Nadja, Jil, and Thorben; her stepdaughter Ursula (Shane); grandchildren Tina (Jon) and Cody; and six great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to her dear friend Carol Duffin and her devoted caregiver Brenda Emery, who provided comfort and companionship in her final days and honored her wish for peace and dignity at home.  Hiltrud was also blessed with a circle of devoted friends who stood by her through the years, offering friendship, laughter, and support. Among them are Sophie Burger, Amy Giglio, Cathy Grigoriou, Gay Halleman, Judy Tauscher, Mary Zych, Carole Howell, Heather Stevens, and Tracey Hemmeler—each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Hiltrud was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by her family and by all whose lives she touched.

Following cremation, she will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband at the St. Francis by the Sea Columbarium. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of Caroline Hospice in Ridgeland or the American Red Cross.