Sunday, January 19, 2025
GLEN ELDER – Linda Hiserote, 72, of Glen Elder, Kansas, passed away on December 9, 2024. She was born on March 3, 1952, in Tokyo, Japan, to Army Master Sergeant Leo Nelson and Jean Nelson.
As a young child in a military family, Linda experienced a life full of adventure and travel. The family eventually put down roots in Beloit, Kansas, where Linda grew up alongside her three brothers and two sisters in a lively household filled with love and laughter. The siblings formed a strong bond and often spent sunny afternoons playing hopscotch, teetering down the sidewalk on homemade stilts, and picking ripe berries from the mulberry tree. As they transitioned into their teenage years, Linda emerged as the nurturing older sister, always looking out for her younger siblings with a warmth that made them feel special.
Through a close friendship with her older brothers, Linda had the chance to meet the love of her life, her husband, Larry. They maintained a long-distance romance as Larry was in the Navy in California. Their connection blossomed, and the two were married in 1970 when Larry returned to Kansas. Together, they created a warm and loving home and raised three wonderful children.
Linda had a passion for helping others. She felt a profound sense of purpose in uplifting those who were navigating challenging circumstances. That passion led her to become a house mother at the Girls Industrial School, where she provided not only guidance and support but also a caring presence in the lives of the young girls entrusted to her care.
As a young adult, Linda was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Seeking a nurturing environment, the family settled on a farm south of Beloit. There, she cultivated a vegetable garden and cared for various animals, including a feisty turkey named Clyde. Clyde loved to hop onto the riding lawnmower, keeping Linda company as she mowed the lawn.
Despite the challenges of her MS, Linda embraced life with a smile and a positive attitude. She refused to let her condition define her or limit her enjoyment. She, alongside her husband Larry and their children, embarked on memorable vacations to many western states. Linda loved the outdoors, enjoying activities like hunting, camping, and fishing, often spending weekends with family and friends around a campfire or on their pontoon boat.
Throughout her life, Linda embraced various interests and hobbies that brought her joy and showcased her creativity. A talented seamstress, she crafted clothing and costumes for her children. Her passion for ceramics led to unique pieces that she gifted to family members. As a board game enthusiast, Linda enjoyed lively gatherings around the game table playing Scrabble and Yahtzee. Linda was also a passionate music lover who cherished her vinyl record collection. Each artist and album had its own significance, but Elvis held a special place in her heart, making him her undisputed favorite.
Linda's most remarkable quality was her deep love for her family. She was a devoted wife who often called her husband the love of her life. Linda had a strong bond with her mother, and they shared a cherished saying that bound them together in moments of comfort. Her love extended to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and more. She had an impressive talent for remembering birthdays and special occasions and wrote many heartfelt letters and cards, making her loved ones feel cherished.
As leaving home grew more challenging for Linda, she and Larry found comfort in watching westerns with their dogs. She took joy in observing the birds and squirrels through the window at the feeder Larry made, as well as seeing the American flag waving from the flagpole, a reminder of her love for her country.
Linda radiated kindness, strength, optimism, and generosity; qualities that profoundly impacted everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her warm smile and selfless spirit created many cherished memories that will inspire for years to come. Linda will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
Linda is survived by her husband, Larry Hiserote; children, Lori (Mike) Burnshire, Wichita, KS, Mike (Karen) Hiserote, Beloit, KS, and Tressa (Alan) Self, Topeka, KS; mother, Jean Nelson; siblings, Steve Nelson (Sue, late), Cheryl Duran, Chris (Rhonda) Nelson, and Cindy (Rodney) Pilcher, all of Beloit; eleven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her father, Leo Nelson, and brother, Gary Nelson.
Memorial services will be held at 11am Saturday, January 18 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home in Beloit. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Funeral Expense Fund. Roberts Family Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.
Condolences may be left at www.robertsfamilyfs.com
