Helen Delores Wilkening was born August 16, 1929, in Lake Shore Township, Lac Qui Parle County, Minnesota to Carl Joseph and Mabel (Hilleren) Monson. She was baptized September 22, 1929, by Rev. L.O. Overhium, and confirmed in 1944 at Minnesota Valley Lutheran Church by Pastor Rogen. She grew up in the Madison area and attended country school through the 8th grade. On March 17, 1948, Helen was united in marriage to Ray Wilkening by Rev. H.E. Everson at Garfield Lutheran Church. This union was blessed with more than 50 years of marriage, three children, and six grandchildren. Helen started working at the age of 14 helping a neighbor with her young children. She had many various occupations throughout her life. She was a baker, a waitress at Al's Steakhouse and Speedway Gardens, home health aide, bartender at Tom's Bar, a true farmer's wife and most of all, a mom. Helen enjoyed spending her time with her friends on their various adventures and with her family, especially her grandchildren. Helen was known for her quick remarks. She made the best homemade donuts, goulash, and oh, yes, potato salad, sorry no recipe exists. Helen was also very active in the community. She was a long time member of Grace Lutheran Church. She was very involved with the VFW Post 4955 Auxiliary serving in many different offices and helping to serve many delicious dinners. She volunteered for many years with Prairie Five Rides and also at Pioneer Public Television. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Montevideo Senior Center, called Bingo at the Appleton Senior Center and at the Appleton Meal Site. Good luck keeping up with her. Helen passed away August 5, 2015, during a day trip to Jackpot Junction. She attained the age of 85 years, 11 months, and 19 days. Helen is survived by her children: Glenn Wilkening of Oklahoma City, OK, Lori (Dan) Putz of Correll, MN, and Rick Wilkening of Appleton; grandchildren: Steven Wilkening, Christopher Wilkening, Melanie Putz, Janae Putz, Tyler Wilkening, and Rebecca Wilkening; brothers: James (Iona) Monson of Madison and Kenneth Monson of Cannon Falls; sisters: Alpha (Elmer) Hersom of New London, Alyce (LeRoy) Weber of Forest Lake, Charlotte (Hilary) Kraus of St. Leo, and Ruth Gatzenmeyer of Raymond; sisters-in-law: Dorothy Monson of Montevideo and Doris Wilkening of Appleton; brother-in-law, Francis Schommer of Inner Grove Heights; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ray Wilkening; daughter-in-law, Cheryl "Diane" Wilkening; brothers: Wallace, Phillip, Charles (Jackie), and Roger; sisters: Gladys "Jo" Monson, Mildred "Millie" Schommer, and Mary (Jack) Granfors; sister-in-law, Marlys Monson; and brother-in-law, Dale Gatzenmeyer.
