Linda J. Pals, age 79, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Meeker Memorial Hospital in Litchfield.

Memorial Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Heartland Evangelical Free Church in Annandale with Pastor Denny Johnson officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Annandale and one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.

Linda Jean Hickman was born on October 23, 1946, in Monticello, Minnesota, to Fred and Lois (Major) Hickman. She grew up on the family farm in the Hasty area near Monticello, cultivated a love for nature and family.

Following her graduation from Monticello High School, Linda pursued cosmetology school, embarking on a brief career as a cosmetologist. However, her greatest joy came from nurturing those around her; she dedicated many years to providing daycare and raising her children. A career change led her to work in the cleaning industry, and she also shared her affection for animals by assisting in horse training.

Linda's family journey took them from Clarion, Iowa, where her children were raised. After her children were grown, she moved to Meservey, Iowa, where she spent 25 cherished years. After the passing of her husband, Kevin Pals, Linda lived a short time with her daughter and her family, eventually calling Litchfield home for the past five years.

Throughout her life, Linda was an active member of her community, embracing her passions through various clubs, including a clogging group and a quilting club. She had a lifelong love of horses and her hobby farm. Linda enjoyed crafting quilts, watching westerns, attending county fairs, tending to her floral garden and raising butterflies.

She is survived by her children, Craig (Paulette) Paumen of Kentucky, Stephanie (Gordon) Heaver of Dassel, and Curt (Robin) Paumen of Maple Lake; four grandchildren, Dawn Paumen, and Kade, Kasara, and Gage Heaver; 3 stepgrandchildren, Jeramie, Richard, and Ashley Wooten; 2 great-grandchildren, Paxton and Paisley; siblings, Don (Bonnie) Hickman of Crosby, Denny (Linda) Hickman of Wichita, KS, and Julie (Laird) Kujawa of Princeton; and nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Linda was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Kevin.

Linda's grandchildren will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.