Helen Marie Gress

Helen Marie Gress, 98, of Hardin, passed away on May 17, 2026. She was born Aug. 23, 1927, in New Burnside, Illinois, the daughter of the late Charles Floyd and Ola Reva (Lauderdale) Church. Helen married Arthur (Bud) Gress on Sept. 22nd, 1945, at St. Norberts Church in Hardin. He proceeded her in death on Dec. 8th, 1991.
Helen enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved them very much, they were her life. Her hobbies included needlework, genealogy and writing. Her journal titled “Memories” is one of her most cherished keepsakes to be passed down to her family.
Helen worked as a bookkeeper and secretary for over 30 years until her retirement in 1988. She was a devout member of the Catholic church.
Surviving is her son, Kenneth Dewain Gress and wife Diane (Mizner); daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Gress; grandchildren, Kim (Lonnie) Clowers, Tony (Traci) Gress and Jeff (Amanda) Gress. Also, great-grandchildren, Cole (Jamie) Sibley, Stella and Lola Gress; in addition to a great-great grandson, Lucas Garrett Sibley.
Preceding her in death is her husband, Arthur; her two brothers, Charles (Irene) and Ed Church; a sister, Mary Ola Ripplinger; her son, Gary Gress; and a great granddaughter, Megan Ann Sibley.
Helen’s circle is now complete, and she is in the arms of the lord.
Visitation will be Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Gress, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin.
Funeral mass will take place at 10 a.m. at St. Norbert’s Church in Hardin.
Burial will follow at St. Norbert’s Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the Calhoun Ambulance, a charity of one’s choice or family choice.
Online condolences can be made at www.kallalandschaaf.com.