Eva Hendrickson died Saturday, August 16, 2014, at her residence in Brookings at the age of 89. Visitations will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Wednesday, August 20, 2014, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings with a private memorial service following that evening. Eva Memets Hendrickson was born on September 1, 1924, in Rakvere, Estonia, the daughter of Jacob and Pauline Marie (Veski) Mittendorf. Eva's father died on December 15, 1933. She and her mother came to America, and lived in Detroit with her mother's sister, Grete Veeervald. Eva's best friend, Maie Orgusaar, came with them from Estonia. Eva and Maie later moved to Estelline, SD through the Displaced Persons Program. Eva was employed at the Lohr Rest Home. Eva met Monroe Hendrickson in May of 1949. They were united in marriage on December 30, 1949, at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Monroe died on June 16, 1972, in Brookings, SD. Eva moved to Estelline in 1978. In 1993, Eva moved to Brookings and has continued to make Brookings her home until the time of her passing. Her friend, Maie, lived in Minneapolis until her death in 2003 at the age of 78. Eva was shy, but loved to laugh when friends and family would come to visit. She had many stories to share, including her leaving Estonia and going through the war. Eva knew very well what it was like to be scared of the planes and the bombing. She never took for granted the wonderful gift of freedom she enjoyed in the United States. She was truly a survivor and her heart was very caring and made of gold. She was so generous and a wonderful hostess to any guests that arrived at the house. She taught her children well, and to think and care about other people. She had made two trips back to Estonia to see her two brothers and families. She loved animals, especially her dogs Fluffy, Muffin and Peanut. She also enjoyed SDSU and NBA Basketball, baking, crossword puzzles, game shows, and taking trips to Minneapolis on the bus to meet her friend Maie. Eva is survived by her children, Mike Hendrickson, Mona Hendrickson, and Kristi (Kelly) Eich all of Brookings, SD. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a sister, and two brothers.