Henry W. Helgen Sr.

In Loving Memory of Henry William "Bill" Helgen Sr.

March 16, 1942 – May 11, 2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Henry William "Bill" Helgen Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Bill departed this world peacefully on May 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and adventure that will be cherished forever.

Born on March 16, 1942, in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to Henry Olani "Lon" Helgen and Lavena Henrietta Branstad Helgen, Bill grew up with a love for learning and community. He pursued his education at St. Olaf College, earning a BA in Economics, and later obtained his MA in Education from Bemidji State University.

Bill dedicated his career to education, service, and leadership, working as the Extension Education Director in Marshalltown, Iowa, from 1996 to 2003. Prior to that, he served in the Peace Corps in Paraguay, South America, between 1993 and 1995. His passion for business and teaching led him to Bemidji Technical College, where he served as a Small Business Manager and instructor from 1978 to 1993. Earlier in his career, he spent 12 years as a manager at Goodyear.

A man deeply committed to his community, Bill was involved in several organizations, including Sister Cities, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Men's Chorus. He found joy in his hobbies, from playing bridge and watching the night sky through his telescopes to traveling the world in pursuit of total solar eclipses – witnessing eight in total. He was also a dedicated volunteer, serving on the local diversity committee, first responders and delivering meals through Meals on Wheels.

Bill married Lois Ann (Wilberg) Helgen on July 17, 1962. Together they raised four children: Henry William Helgen Jr., partner Kristi Hanson (OR), Kurt Helgen (d), Lee Helgen, spouse Deb Bahr-Helgen (MN), and Lori Helgen (MN). They were married for 34 years prior to Lois’ passing.

Bill continued as a loving husband to his new bride, Irlanda Rodriguez Helgen, with whom he shared a beautiful life since their marriage on June 5, 2004, at St. Mary's Church in Marshalltown. His love and guidance enriched the lives of both their children, including Irlanda’s: Erika (Hoffman) Peterson, husband Jesse Peterson (IA) and Jacob Hoffman (NE).

He was a proud grandfather to Marissa and Grace Helgen (OR), Evan and Luke Helgen (MN), Amira Bartholomew and Ramona Hoffman. Also, he was Grandpa “Strawberry” to Arielle Miller’s (NE) children, August, Winter, and Olive.

He also leaves behind his cherished siblings, Lanny Peterson (MD) and Lon Helgen (MN), along with nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, his first wife Lois (Wilberg) Helgen, his son Kurt Helgen, his brother-in-law Charlie O. Peterson, and his nephew Charlie Peterson.

Bill's journey was one of passion, service, and deep love for his family and the world around him. His warmth, humor, and unwavering dedication to learning and community touched countless lives. His legacy will continue to shine, just as he found joy in the stars above.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held in his honor. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the light he deeply admired. The visitation is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 9:00 am, followed by a service at 10:00 am at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home, 1209 Iowa Ave., Marshalltown, IA, 50158. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to a local charity:

● Marshall County Council on Aging, Meals on Wheels, Marshalltown, IA

● Grimes Farm and Conservation Center, Marshall County, IA

● Iowa River Hospice, Marshalltown, IA

-Lovingly written by the family