Helen E. Hensel

Helen E. Hensel, 95, of Berthoud, Colorado, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. Although born in Baltimore, Maryland, Helen made Colorado her home for many years, where she built a life filled with love, creativity, and curiosity.

Throughout her life, Helen cultivated many passions. She was often behind the camera, thoughtfully capturing family moments and special occasions-preserving memories that will be cherished for generations. As the family historian, she had a deep interest in genealogy, enthusiastically tracing her roots and sharing her discoveries with loved ones.

A devoted reader, Helen surrounded herself with books that she returned to time and again-old friends that brought her continual joy. Her love of gardening filled her days with beauty and a sense of accomplishment, and she delighted in bringing her harvests into the kitchen. Cooking and collecting recipes became another creative outlet, and even at 95, she remained active in preparing meals for those she loved.

Helen is survived by her husband of 59 years, James Hensel; her children Barbara (Lou) Hakim of El Paso, TX, Keith (Veronica) Hensel of Westminster, CO, David (Becky) Hensel of Montrose, CO, and Michael (Adrienne) Hensel of Larkspur, CO; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Myles Farley, brother-in-law Frank Chiappone, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Helen Fox and her sisters, Winifred Parsons, Ruth Chiappone, Patricia Farley, Catherine Smith and Sue Ann Shifflett.

Helen will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, and caring friend whose warmth and kindness touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of her family and friends.

Services will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Parish, 1730 W. 12th St., Loveland, Colorado. The rosary will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at Loveland Burial Park immediately after the service.

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral will be live-streamed at the following link: https://youtube.com/live/IMfE7NPS22A?feature=share (no password required).