Geraldine Helmin Obituary

Geraldine Helmin, age 99, of Foley, passed away March 6, 2026, at her home. Mass of Christian Burial was March 11 at St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church in Brennyville. The Rev. Matthew Langager officiated and burial took place in the parish cemetery. Visitation was at the church. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.
Geraldine Veronica Helmin was born June 10, 1926, in Alberta Township, Benton County, to John and Veronica (Kantor) Gombos. She graduated from Foley High School at age 16. She married Edward J. Helmin, and they later divorced. Geraldine farmed and raised her family and also worked for Milaca Mills for many years. Geraldine was an excellent seamstress and quilter and was fondly known as, Pajama Grandma, to her many grandchildren. She was an avid reader and gardener, prayed the rosary daily and always kept up on current events. Geraldine was a member of the Christian Mothers, the St. Elizabeth's quilting group and was a lifelong member of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church.
She is survived by her children, Harvey (Barb) of Golden Valley, Tim (Deb) of St. Cloud, Barb (Butch) Lenzen of Sartell, Kevin 'George' (Jan) of Foley, Mary Jo (John) Hogan of Foley, Kathy (Bill) Christman of Foley, Chris (Glenn) Seppelt of Foley, Patty Kennedy of Delano, Lori (Tom) Kasner of Albany, Carol (Tom) Botz of St. Joseph and Lisa (Justin) Foss of Foley as well as 32 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Christine Flatten, Dorothy Moulzolf, Gerald Gombos and Pat Cielinski; infant siblings, Marcella, Leona and Roger; and three infant great-grandchildren.