Helen Caris, 91, died July 4, 2026, at the Wesley on Grand care facility in Des Moines, Iowa. She was born on March 10, 1935 at home near Denmark, Iowa. Helen was the first of four daughters born to Fred and Pauline (Smith) Holsteen who farmed near Denmark.
Helen graduated from Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. It was there she met Crane Caris, to whom she was married for 57 years until his death in 2014. Helen was an elementary school teacher for over 30 years in public schools in Shenandoah, Iowa, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa and Lehigh Acres, Florida, directly impacting the lives of thousands of children over her career. Helen and Crane lived in Shenandoah and Mt. Pleasant, and then moved south to Ft. Myers, Florida in 1990 to enjoy more sunshine. Following Crane’s death, Helen moved to Des Moines and resided there until her death.
Helen was a member of the Pi Beta Phi Sorority and Presbyterian Churches in Shenandoah, Mt. Pleasant and Ft. Myers. She was a frequent member of the church choir. Helen had a beautiful voice and growing up, she and her sisters performed a cappella for various events around the community. She also was an avid reader and accomplished seamstress. Helen always had a positive outlook on life and was a devoted wife and mother.
Helen is survived by her son, David (Hallie) Caris of Des Moines, and daughter, Marty Caris of Des Moines. She also is survived by her grandson, Charlie Caris of Arlington, Virginia, granddaughter Libby (Caleb) Holder of West Des Moines, and great granddaughter Sophie Holder of West Des Moines. Helen also is survived by her sisters Dorothy (Roman) Klodnycky of Peoria, Illinois, and Bette (Sonny) Mynatt of Denmark, Iowa and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Helen was preceded in death by her sister Carol Kelly, brother-in-law, Aaron Kelly, and brother-in-law, Barry Caris.
A private funeral and burial will be held in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa in August with family. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Enhance Henry County Community Foundation, 2411 Radio Road, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa 52641, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Friends may sign the guest book at www.IlesCares.com.