Lila Sillerud, Beloved Canby Resident, Passes Away at 86

Lila Sillerud, a longtime Canby, Minnesota resident known for her sewing, baking, and community involvement, has died at the age of 86.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Lila J. Sillerud, a lifelong resident of Canby, Minnesota, passed away on February 26, 2026 at the age of 86. Sillerud was known for her many talents, including sewing, baking, and community involvement. She taught home economics at the local high school, opened a sewing store called Snip'n'Stitch, and was active in her church and community organizations. Sillerud is survived by her four children, numerous grandchildren, and other family members.

Why it matters

Lila Sillerud's passing marks the end of an era in Canby, Minnesota. As a longtime resident and pillar of the community, Sillerud embodied the values of hard work, creativity, and civic engagement that have defined the town for generations. Her life and legacy serve as a reminder of the importance of community-minded individuals who dedicate themselves to making their hometowns better places to live.

The details

Sillerud was born in 1939 in New Ulm, Minnesota and grew up on a family farm in Gibbon. She excelled in school, participating in choir, attending Girls State, and exhibiting at the Minnesota State Fair through 4-H. After graduating from Mankato State University with a teaching degree in Home Economics, Sillerud began her teaching career in Ellendale, Minnesota, where she met her husband Cliff. The couple moved to Canby in 1965 and raised four children together. In addition to her teaching work, Sillerud opened a sewing store called Snip'n'Stitch on Canby's main street and was heavily involved in her church and community organizations.

  • Lila Sillerud was born on October 25, 1939 in New Ulm, Minnesota.
  • Sillerud and her husband Cliff moved to Canby, Minnesota in 1965.
  • Cliff Sillerud passed away in 2017 after 56 years of marriage.
  • Lila Sillerud passed away on February 26, 2026 at the age of 86.
  • Sillerud's memorial service will be held on March 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Canby, Minnesota.

The players

Lila J. Sillerud

An 86-year-old resident of Canby, Minnesota who was known for her sewing, baking, and community involvement. She taught home economics, opened a sewing store, and was active in her church and local organizations.

Cliff Sillerud

Lila's husband of 56 years, who was a teacher of Industrial Arts. The two met when Lila was teaching in Ellendale, Minnesota.

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church

The church in Canby, Minnesota where Lila Sillerud was an active member, serving as a Sunday School leader, Vacation Bible School coordinator, church council member, soloist, and regular worshipper.

Ava's House Hospice

The hospice facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota where Lila Sillerud passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Reverend Levi Bollerud

The pastor who will officiate Lila Sillerud's memorial service at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Lila Sillerud's life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring power of community, creativity, and civic engagement. Her passing marks the end of an era in Canby, Minnesota, but her impact will continue to be felt through the lives she touched and the traditions she helped preserve.