Kyla Marie Dippong

Brooklyn

Kyla Marie Dippong of Brooklyn, NY, formerly of Minot, passed away peacefully at her home after a long battle with cancer. Kyla was the fourth of five daughters born to Richard and Harriett (Barton) Dippong.

A graduate of Minot High School, she went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from Minot State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

After settling in Brooklyn, Kyla pursued diverse and creative careers as a scenic artist, singer, and florist before becoming a certified horticulturist. She brought her passion for nature to life through her work at several of New York City’s most iconic gardens, including Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Battery Park, Prospect Park, and The High Line. At the time of her passing, she was a horticulturist at Wave Hill Public Gardens and Cultural Center in the Bronx.

A devoted supporter of the arts, Kyla was a longtime member of the Brooklyn Academy of Music, cherishing its vibrant performances in theater, opera, film, and dance.

Kyla is lovingly remembered by her sisters: Kathryn Dippong Lawson (Dan), Karen Ellingson, Kendall Dippong, and Kristin Dippong Smith (Mark); her niece and nephews: Madison Dippong, Skyler, Weston, and Mason Ellingson, and Conner and Carson Smith; and by dear friends and colleagues whose lives were brightened by her creativity, warmth, and wit.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Harriett Dippong, and her brother-in-law, Dale Ellingson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Kyla’s name to Wave Hill Public Gardens and Cultural Center or the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Published by The Minot Daily News July 31, 2025.