Helen Joan Scheppele

Helen Joan Scheppele, 96, of Dubuque, died Friday, March 6, 2026, at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 10:30 am Friday, March 13, 2026 at St. John's Episcopal Church.

The Funeral Service for Helen will be 10:30 am Friday, March 13, 2026, at St. John's Episcopal Church with Mother Susan Forshey SCP officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Helen was born December 7, 1929, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Ralph W. and Edna M. Henker Widdowson. She was born in the family home at 17th and Jackson Streets, weighing only about three pounds, and was carefully kept warm on the family's water heater during her earliest days.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and worked in the offices at J.C. Penney for 45 years.

Helen lived a full and vibrant life, marked by friendship, community, and a spirit of adventure. She was a longtime member of St. John's Episcopal Church and at one time was actively involved in several local organizations, including the 600 Women's Bowling Club of Dubuque and the Dubuque YMCA/YWCA, where she enjoyed many years of fellowship and activity. Helen was known among friends for her wonderful baking. She also had a love of travel and took the opportunity to explore many parts of the world. A proud homeowner, she had the distinction of having the first house built on Simpson Street. Though she had no children, Helen was surrounded by many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Survivors include many friends, including Ken Meyer of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marguerite Widdowson-Udell.

A memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque.

A special thank you to the compassionate staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home for their care and support, and to her wonderful Simpson Street neighbors-Rory, Donna, and Mark-for their kindness, friendship, and help over the years.