Helen Olfelt

Helen Sheloa Olfelt, age 96, of Golden Valley (formerly St Louis Park), passed away June 22, 2020.

Helen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, was born in Minneapolis to Harry and Myrtle Hanson.  She met her husband, Dr. Paul Olfelt, while they were both students at the University of Minnesota.  Preceded in death by Paul in 2017; and her loving older brother Harris, in 2011.  Helen enjoyed opening her home and welcomed many “strangers” who experienced her gift of hospitality.  She was a great cook, a tremendous baker, and a wonderful seamstress.  She loved children-especially babies-and found great joy as a grandmother of 12 and great grandmother of 20.

Helen’s faith was nurtured at Salem and Bethany Covenant churches, a faith that was lovingly passed on to her 4 children.  Helen sang in the choir and served with Bethany Covenant Women.  Besides travels that took her and Paul to Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America, one of Helen’s favorite pastimes was long-blade ice skating.

Survived by children, Jan (Art) Helin, Jill (Galen) Johnson, John (Barb) Olfelt, Jean (Steve) Nornes; grandchildren, Phil (Amanda) Helin, Tim (Claire) Helin, Johanna (Adam) Speas, Josh Helin, Elikia Johnson, Daniel (Allison) Olfelt, Paul (Sarah Jo) Olfelt, Leah and Sarah Olfelt, Drew, Rachel and Anna Nornes; also 20 great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Janet Olfelt; nieces, nephews, and their families.

The Graveside Memorial Service will be held 3:00 pm Tuesday, June 30, at Lakewood Cemetery.  We encourage people to meet at the entrance at 2:45 p.m.

Memorials preferred to Community Covenant Church, Minneapolis.