Henry William “Bill” Helgen Sr., 83, of Marshalltown, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Bill will be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, and deep commitment to community.
Born in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to Henry “Lon” and Lavena (Branstad) Helgen, Bill earned a BA in Economics from St. Olaf College and an MA in Education from Bemidji State University. His career includes working at Goodyear and as a business instructor at Bemidji Technical College. He served in the Peace Corps in Paraguay and later as Extension Education Director in Marshalltown until his retirement in 2003.
Bill was active in the community, including Sister Cities, the Chamber of Commerce, the Men’s Chorus, First Responders, and Meals on Wheels. He enjoyed traveling and chased eight total solar eclipses across the globe.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lois (Wilberg) Helgen, and son Kurt. He is survived by his wife Irlanda; children Bill Jr. (partner Kristi), Lee (spouse Deb), Lori, and step-children Erika (spouse Jesse), and Jacob; grandchildren Marissa, Grace, Evan, Luke, Amira, Ramona, August, Winter, and Olive; and siblings Lanny Peterson and Lon Helgen.
A celebration of life was held Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 10 a.m., with visitation at 9 a.m., Mitchell Family Funeral Home, Marshalltown, IA. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.
Memorials may be directed to Marshall County Meals on Wheels, Grimes Farm and Conservation Center, or Iowa River Hospice.
