Helen Joann (Hongerholt) Raaen age 89, of Lanesboro died peacefully at her home on Sunday, May 5, 2024.
Helen was born October 17, 1934, in Peterson, Minn., to Albert and Gunild (Engebretson) Hongerholt. She graduated from Peterson High School in 1953. After graduation, she moved to Minneapolis. In July 1953, she started working at Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank of Minneapolis. She worked there as a teller and a cashier for 12 1/2 years. In December 1965 she moved back home. On December 18, 1965, she was united in marriage with Glen C. Raaen at the Grace Lutheran Church in Peterson. Helen was a faithful member of the Christ Lutheran Church of Preston. Helen adored her children, grandchildren and family. Helen loved making her Norwegian foods, including rommegrot, lefsa, and rosettes.
Helen is survived by her daughter Lisa (Lance) Armstrong of rural Lanesboro, two sons, Keith (Denise) Raaen of Fountain, and Kurt (Tracy) Raaen of Preston; grandchildren Lane (Alea) Armstrong, Larissa Armstrong, Tyler Raaen, Taryn Raaen and Tori Raaen, and step-granddaughters Chelsea Kaiser and Casey Rislov. Helen has four great-grandchildren and six step great-grandchildren. She is also survived by sister-in-law Donna (Milford) Olson and brother-in-law LuVerne (Joyce) Raaen.
Helen is the last sibling in her generation. She was preceded in death by her husband Glen, parents, siblings Hilda Hongerholt, Helen Hongerholt, Ida Klingsheim, Sidney Hongerholt, Altetha Carlson, Ingvald Hongerholt, Hildegarde Klingsheim and Joseph Hongerholt. Also her sisters-in-law Betty Livingood and Shirley Rye.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 8 at Christ Lutheran Church in Preston, with the Pastor Kris Hertsgaard Kincaid officiating. Burial will take place in the Hongerholt Cemetery in rural Peterson. There will be a reviewal at the church from 9:30-11 a.m. prior to the service on Wednesday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be designated to the Christ Lutheran Church or the Hongerholt Cemetery.
Linda Rain says
Lisa and family,
Losing a Mom is hard to do and you have my heartfelt sympathy. I only knew Helen for a few years, but she was a delightful person and neighbor. May you and your family always cherish good memories of her.
Linda Rain
Fran Fairbairn Sauer says
I was sorry to learn of Helen’s passing. Although I didn’t know her well, she was always pleasant & had a sweet smile.. Unfortunately, I received news of her passing on Wednesday evening. Please know that I will keep you in my thoughts & prayers. With Sympathy, Fran Sauer
Kim & Jean Benson says
Glen& Helen were wonderful neighbors. We are so very sorry for your loss ❤️