Helen Skaar

Helen Bernice (Johnson) Skaar was born on August 18, 1927, in Swede Prairie Township to William and Elvera (Vanstrom) Johnson. She was baptized at Swede Home Lutheran Church and confirmed at Israel Lutheran church. Helen graduated from Clarkfield High School in 1945. On July 21, 1946, she was united in marriage to Kermit Skaar in Swede Prairie. To that union six children were born. The couple farmed south of Minneota until his death in 1983. In 1987, Helen moved to Minneota. She was active in many areas. As a child, Helen was in 4-H and later became a Leader. She served as Vice President and Treasurer for the Evangelical Lutheran Church Women at Hope Lutheran as well as being active in the circles and ladies aid. Helen enjoyed spending time at the Minneota Senior Center and also served on their board. She and Kermit were Farm Bureau members. Her hobbies included crocheting, playing cards, sewing and baking. Helen took great pride in hearing about and going to her grandchildren’s activities. The grandchildren particularly enjoyed her chocolate chip cookies. Helen died on Thursday, February 23, 2012, at the Minneota Manor. She is survived by her children: Wanda (and Carl) Hurtgen of Oakdale, MN, Susan (and Steve) Prior of Glendale, AZ, Wayne (and Marlys) Skaar of Minneota, Earl (and Lori) Skaar of Minneota, Barbara Skaar of Woodbury, MN, grandchildren Michael and Peter Hurtgen, Steve and Scott Balthazor, Michelle Becker, Oona Olson, Lisa Fadness, Wade Skaar, Codi, Leah, Elen and Troy Skaar, 12 great-grandchildren and one on the way, sister Deloris Johnson of Oakdale and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Kermit, son Kenneth, sister Vernetta Krengel and brother Elden Johnson. Suggested memorials are Hope Lutheran Church, Minneota Senior Center, Arthritis Foundation or the Donor’s Choice.