Lila Lorraine Mullen died and went her Lord and Savior on March 26, 2017.

Lila was born December 5, 1924, to Bill and Lena (Besmer) Kerner at home near Jamison, Nebraska.  She attended school at the local District school through the eighth grade.  Lila moved with her family to the Lucas area in 1947, where she met Frank, and married November 27, 1948.  Their family was complete when Ann was born.

Frank and Lila worked together ranching in the Lucas area, with Lila also keeping a spotless home.  Lila was an excellent baker and cook, as many can attest.  She fed anyone who came to their home, and these folks numbered many.  Although you could most often find Lila at home, she touched many lives through her 92 years, in many different ways.  Lila loved children, cherishing visits from neighbor children, making time for games and snacks.  No one left Lila and Frank's home hungry.  Lila may best be remembered by some for her popcorn balls, fried chicken, pies and caramel rolls.

Lila was confirmed and attended Immanuel Lutheran Church in Jamison, until joining St. John Lutheran in Gregory.  She remained a member until 2009, at which time she joined Christ Lutheran in Winner.  Although Lila was a reserved lady and rarely openly discussed her faith, her deep Christian faith began at a young age, fostered by parents, and remained so throughout her earthly life.

Some of Lila's favorite activities were riding horses, reading, gardening, visiting with friends, and playing games with neighborhood children and friends.  She and Frank spent many evenings with their friends, playing games and cards.  They moved into Gregory in 1996, where they continued to enjoy these activities with new friends.

Granddaughter Lisa brought a new joy to their lives, spending lots of time with them, forming strong bonds of love and special relationships.  Lila then cherished her great-grandkids - Frank, Tucker and Taylor - having a special and individual relationship with each one.  Declining health limited her physical activities with them, but they all know great-gram's love for games and card playing, all having been called "You little rat or little rascal" when beating her.  Don and Paul have also experienced her piercing look and verbal endearments when catching her joker or jack, or blocking her play in Uno.  Much laughter has echoed in Lila's home over the years, and her everlasting memories will continue to bring laughter and smiles.

Lila is survived by her daughter, Dr. Ann (Paul) Morehouse, granddaughter, Dr. Lisa (Don) Even, great-grandkids Frank, Tucker and Taylor, sister Esther Rogers, brother Jack, along with nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, brother Fred, and sister Violet Herman.  Although Lila will be missed, she leaves a living legacy of love in her family and friends.

Funeral services for Lila Mullen , age 92 , of Gregory, SD will be held on Friday, March 31, 2017 at 1:00 PM at St. John's Lutheran Church in Gregory, SD.  Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery, Gregory.  There will be a prayer service on Thursday at 7:00 PM at the church.  Visitation will be one hour prior to both services at the church.  Clausen Funeral Home in Burke is handling the arrangements.