Magnhild - Gilbertson

Magnhild Gilbertson (Hompland) was born in Kvinesdal, Norway on May 29, 1930. She was the eldest of three children born to Jenny and Ingvald Hompland.

She often talked about growing up in the idyllic farmland community of Kvinesdal. She was from a very large family of aunts, uncles and cousins that she spoke of and fondly recalls interacting with on a daily basis.

Malla was so proud of her Norwegian heritage and always retained her Norwegian citizenship living in the United States for over 60 years.

In the early 1950’s she moved to New York, where she met the love of her life, Oswald and was married in 1954. She never really got over his passing in 2009.

Malla and Oswald were blessed with two sons Jan (61) and Erik (56), whom they proudly raised in the San Diego area.

The real joy of Malla’s life was her five Grandsons; Ryan, Reid, Cole, Riley and Cade. She was especially proud of the fact that they all either graduated college, are still in college, medical school or enjoying successful careers.

When not talking about her Grandchildren, Malla loved to knit, cook, entertain and travel the world with her beloved Husband.

Malla is survived by her Sons (Jan & Erik), Daughters-in-Law (Lisa and Dina), Grandsons (Ryan, Reid, Cole, Riley and Cade), Sister (Ingeborg-Norway), Brother (Andreas-Norway) along with many other family members throughout the US and Norway.

Per Malla’s wishes, a private family internment service will be held at Ft. Rosecrans, where she will be reunited with Oswald for eternity.

There will be no public services.

Please see below for additional information on the Malla Gilbertson Memorial Fund, which was established in her honor.



The Malla Gilbertson Memorial Fund has been established to aid both world hunger relief and refugee assistance programs, two causes near to her heart.

Please mail Checks payable to:
St. Andrews Lutheran Church
8350 Lake Murray Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92119

Memo: Malla Gilbertson Memorial Fund