Helen J. Andersen

Helen J. Andersen, age 95, of Spencer, Iowa died on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at St. Luke Lutheran Home in Spencer.

PRIVATE FAMILY BURIAL will be in the Lone Tree Cemetery in Sioux Rapids. Public visitation will take place on Thursday, March 19, 2020 from 12:00-2:00 p.m. at the Sliefert Funeral Home in Sioux Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Special Olympics: 1133 19th St. NW, 12th Floor; Washington, DC 20036. The Sliefert Funeral Home in Sioux Rapids is in charge of the arrangements.

Born on October 28, 1924 at her family farm just outside Sioux Rapids, Iowa.  Helen grew up on the farm with her seven brothers and one sister.  From an early age, she was drawn to working with children. After High School, she enrolled at Iowa State Teacher's college where she earned her teaching credential. She began her teaching career in Calhoun County.  It was there she meet her husband of over 50 years, Arnold Andersen. 

They moved to Orange, California in 1952, where their only child, Richard was born.  Soon after, Helen went back to college and earned her BA and MA degrees in Education from Chapman College.  She taught in the Orange City school district for over 25 years, specializing in 2nd and 3rd grades.  Her last ten years she worked exclusively as a reading resource instructor.  After Helen retired in in 1983, she and Arnold lived in Crescent City California and later, Modesto California.  In 2011 she moved to Spencer Iowa to be closer to her Iowa family members.

Helen was an active member of the Lutheran church in every location she lived.  She spent many hours a week volunteering to raise funds and knowledge for the church.  She also enjoyed sewing, baking, gardening and her two dachshunds. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her grandsons after school when they were young. She was a very giving person and loved to laugh.

Helen is survived by her younger brother, Norman Halverson of Spencer, and her two grandsons, Justin and Nathan Andersen of Carson City Nevada and Modesto California. She is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces. 

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