Archived Services

Helen Lillian Arntz
10-08-2020

Helen Lillian Schmidt Arntz passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2020 at her son’s home with family by her side. On March 4, 1932, Fred and Ethyl Schmidt brought Helen home to Bath, SD to join her sister Elaine (Henry Arntz). Her sister Sharon (Clem Huber) joined the family in 1937. Their family enjoyed time on the farm, with Helen recalling stories of her childhood, especially riding their horse. Helen graduated from Aberdeen Central High School in 1950. 

On December 30, 1950 Helen married Donald Frank Arntz in Aberdeen, SD. They met on the Arntz family farm. Don and Helen moved to Colorado Springs while Don was stationed in the army. They later made their home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. They were blessed with 4 children: Cynthia, Deborah, Teresa and Douglas. 

  Helen was a wonderful wife to Donald. Her life revolved around Don, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Everyone remembers Helen’s kind spirit, homemade bread, cinnamon rolls and an abundance of Christmas goodies. On September 14, 2006 Don passed away after sharing 56 years with Helen. Their love was endless, a wonderful example for their family. 

Helen and Don enjoyed attending Mass and activities at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, praying the rosary often. Helen spent time sewing, making quilts, making cards, embroidering, crocheting, baking and visiting friends. When friends or family needed help, she was there; to visit, take them to church, doctor appointments, and errands. Helen loved to talk, sharing stories of her life, her four children, ten grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren, and friends. She was God’s blessing to her family and friends. 

She and Don supported their family, attending many athletic and music events, hosting family and holiday meals, and always praying for their family and friends. They were passionate about the Paralyzed Veterans of America, attending meetings, preparing newsletters and traveling to Washington, DC to lobby. 

Don and Helen’s family includes a sister: Sharon Huber; children: Cynthia (Curt) Watson, Deborah (Butch) Yesda, Teresa (Randall) Royer, Douglas (Crystal) Arntz; grandchildren: Chad (Rita), Scott (Lacey) and Trisha Watson; grandchildren: Jennifer Yesda-Bray; Andrea, Erica (Justin), and Ryan (Kelly) Royer, Josh (Mary), Jamie and Jordan Arntz; great-grandchildren: Chase, Gage, Kade, Cecelia, Jake, and Zac Watson, Haley and Hannah Bray, Casimir, Sam, and Lyrick Arntz, Bridger and Corbin Benson, Riley and Brody Royer; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband: Don; her sister: Elaine; brother-in-law: Henry Arntz; brother-in-law: Clem Huber; and grandchildren: Jamie Arntz and Trisha Watson.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 11 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home. Masks are required. A private family Mass of Christian Burial will take place.