Else Marie Helfritz

Obituary of Else Marie (Nielsen) Helfritz
Else Marie (Nielsen) Helfritz 81, died peacefully in her home in Rosemount MN surrounded by her loved ones Saturday May 3rd. She was born in Albert Lea MN on October 3rd 1943 to the late Christian and Clara (Taylor) Nielsen.
A graduate of Albert Lea High School, Else married Jan Helfritz (Lyle) in 1962 after they met and worked at Sweed's cafe where she was a waitress and he the cook. Else worked many different jobs, from a bank teller in Anaheim CA, a legal secretary, a secretary for the State of Minnesota, and for the President of the YWCA of St. Paul. She worked for the USPS in Phoenix AZ and retired from Case IH in St.Paul, MN
Else was known for her piercing blue eyes, long legs, a sarcastic wit to rival none, and a deep love of Dr Pepper. Her competitive spirit always shown thru playing (and usually winning) cribbage, bridge and a love for bowling. Even to her last days in her memory care facility, she held court in the dining area, telling jokes and making everyone laugh, especially the staff.
Else is survived by her 2 sisters, Deloris Ross and Valborg Steibler, her 3 children Genna, Angela (husband Mike) and Christian (wife Kathy). 2 grandchildren Mettine (husband Brian) and Ashley as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Jan, and his parents Bonnie (Beach), and Delmer Helfritz, sister in law Janice (Greiner) Helfritz, niece Shannon Reuss, and 3 brother in laws, Jerry Stiebler and Winfred Ross and David Helfritz.
A Celebration of Life has been planned for the 28th of June from 1-4p at her daughters Genna and Angela's home at 1061 Ashbrook Path, Rosemount, MN. If you like, bring a favorite dessert to share as sweets were a favorite of Else and/or wear something purple/lavender as that was her favorite color. Light refreshments and Dr Pepper will be served.