Gene Helkenn

Gene Roger Helkenn, 89, passed away Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at Avantara in Clark with family by his side.

Gene was born on June 6, 1932 in Clark, SD to Edward and LaVerne (Kruthoff) Helkenn. He grew up on the family farm south of Raymond and graduated from Logan High School in 1950. In October of 1952, after graduation, Gene entered the army as a Combat Infantryman and machine gunner. He honorably discharged after 2 years in October of 1954.

On August 9, 1968, he married Carolyn Eneboe at the Clark Center Church. They had two sons; Randy in 1970 and Ryan in 1974.

Gene was a life long farmer with his brothers and his sons. He enjoyed spending time with his grand kids and enjoyed working in the yard and taking care of Carolyn. He moved to town in 2007.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Wayne, Norman, Arlyn (Um); sister, Patsy Wallum; and sister in-law, Mary.

Gene is survived by his wife, Carolyn; son Randy (Andrea) and granddaughters Zoey and Callie; son Ryan (Heather) and grandchildren Austin (Marisa), Alexa, and Breanna; his siblings, Dale (Lavonne) Helkenn, Butch (Betty) Helkenn; his sisters-in-law, Joyce Helkenn, Roma Nelson, Virginia (Lee) Schmunk; and brother-in-law Allen (Brenda) Eneboe; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 21, 2021 at Furness Funeral Home in Clark, SD from 5-7 PM.

Services will be held on Monday, November 22, 2021 at the Clark United Methodist Church at 10:30 AM with burial to follow.

Family welcomes you to join them for a lunch afterwards at the church.

In lieu of flowers; please direct donations to family so they may properly direct them to the wonderful employees of Avantara that helped Gene.