Helen Hennies, 104, of Fort Madison, Iowa died peacefully on April 21, 2023, after being blessed with a long, sweet life.
She was born on February 22, 1919, in rural Lee County, Iowa, the third child of Grover and Hazel (Grimm) Rohdy. She taught in a country school for two years before marrying Howard Hennies in 1940.
Helen was a proud farmer’s wife who wrapped her family in love. She served hearty meals, ironed the bedsheets, and made sure the candy jar was always full. She had a twinkle in her eye and an infectious chuckle, and doled out nuggets of wisdom like sweet treats. She was a talented seamstress who specialized in beautifully crafted bridal and formal gowns, her quilting skills were legendary. In her later years, she traded her sewing and quilting needles for books. She was partial to love stories, though none could compare to the bond she shared with her beloved Howard, whom she had been patiently waiting to see again.
Helen is survived by her children: David (Mary) Hennies of Arlington, Minnesota, and Deanna (Don) Reynolds of Argyle, Iowa and Marceline, Missouri; her six grandchildren: Erinn Lind of Gilbert, Arizona, Shannon Brownell of Chicago, Illinois, Megan (Jason) Fox of Omaha, Nebraska, Michael (Rachel) Hennies of St. Louis, Missouri, Sarah Mader (Brian) of Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, and Angela (John) Davies of Stillwater, Minnesota; and eleven cherished great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving sisters: Jeane Grossman and Betty Jury, who were her faithful companions and bingo partners in her final years.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband: Howard; her parents: Grover and Hazel Grimm Rohdy; her brothers: Dale, Robert, Charles, and Don Rohdy; her sister: Ruth Hennies, and her great-grandsons: Jacob and Lucas Hennies.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Helen’s beautiful life on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at the United Church of Christ in Donnellson. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. with Tony Keefe officiating and a reception at the church following burial at Primrose Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Donnellson or the Donnellson Public Library.
Schmitz Funeral Home of Donnellson is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.