Eugene Edmund “Gene” Helle, 89, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, June 30, 2022. He was born
on March 8, 1933, in Luxemburg, the son of William and Anastacia (Maiers) Helle. Gene was raised and educated in
the Earlville area.
On April 28, 1953, Gene married Esther Lahr at Sand Springs, Iowa. They farmed together for many years east of
Dundee. Gene was a salesman of Vigortone Feeds for over 30 years. Upon retirement, the couple moved to
Manchester.
Gene was a longtime faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church helping serve Mass for many years. He was also a
member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and Knights of Columbus. Gene enjoyed music, playing cards, traveling,
and attending dances with Esther.
Survivors include sisters-and brothers-in-law, Donna (Loras) Manternach of Masonville, Joyce (Clarence)
Freisinger of Minnesota, Kenneth (Mary) Lahr of Delhi, and Joan Lahr of Hopkinton; and many nieces and nephews.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Esther Helle in 2016; his parents William and Anastacia Helle; his parents-
in-law, Henry and Emma Lahr; two sisters, Ardella (Matt) Bildstein and Alice (William) Bockenstedt; two brothers,
Marvin (Olga) Helle and James (Joann) Helle; and a brother-in-law, Jim Lahr.
Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com .
Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, Iowa,
with Rev. Gabriel Anderson officiating.
Visitation: 9:00 to 10:45 a.m., on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester.
Interment: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery – Manchester, Iowa
