Obit: Helsten, Kenneth E. (1916 - 2007)

Contact:  Audrey Roedl
Email: audero@charter.net

Surnames: HESTEN OLSON

----Sources: Loyal TRG 13 June 2007

Helsten, Kenneth E. (3 JAN 1916 - 25 MAY 2007)

Kenneth E. Helsten, 91, Rockford, Ill. (rural Byron), died Friday, May 25, 2007, in his home after a short illness. Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 30, in Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, Byron. The Rev. William Nelson officiated. Burial was in the Scandinavian Cemetery, Rockford.

Kenneth E. Helsten was born Jan. 3, 1916, in Spencer, to Frederick and Hulda (Olson) Helsten. He attended a one-room elementary school at Romeo and graduated from Spencer High School, Spencer. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church, Unity. He moved to Rockford in 1936, and was initially employed as a truck driver. In 1940, he purchased a farm. During the next 55 years, he and his brothers farmed in the Rockford, Byron, and Stillman Valley areas. His interests included woodworking, farming, caring for livestock, and his German shepherds.

Survivors include a sister-in-law, Kathryn Helsten; and eight nieces and nephews.