Lorene Helgeson, age 89, of Detroit Lakes, MN, died Monday, November 2, 2009 at Emmanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes.

Lorene Janis Anderson was born on September 4, 1920 in Cottonwood, MN, the daughter of Tolvin and Mary (Stensrud) Anderson. As a young child, she moved with her family to Fargo, ND. After her graduation from Fargo High School, Lorene moved to Seattle, WA, living there shortly over a year. She then returned to Fargo and began working for Herbst Department Store. Lorene was also employed for a time at Blacks Department store before beginning her career in medical records at MeritCare Hospital. In 1970, Lorene was united in marriage to Sander Helgeson. The couple continued to make their home in Fargo until 1998 when they moved to Detroit Lakes. After Sanders' death in 2000, Lorene moved into the Lincoln Park apartments. In 2003, she entered the Emmanuel Nursing Home where she continued to make her home.

Lorene touched many hearts with her wonderful attitude. She was always in a good mood and looked at the positive in every situation. Lorene loved to crochet and often made doilies, afghans, and dolls. She was known to share many of these hand-crocheted gifts with her grandsons, many friends, and other residents of Emmanuel Nursing Home.

Lorene is survived by one daughter, Linda (Jon) Tibbetts of Detroit Lakes; and two grandsons, Jerad (Tara) and Jacob.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sander; and one sister, Ethel DeBuscher.


Funeral Services were held at 2:00 pm on Friday, November 5, 2009 at Faaberg Lutheran Church, rural Fertile, MN, with Pastor John Ahola officiating. Dorothy Harstad served as organist. All of her family and friends served as pallbearers. Visitation took place at the church one hour prior to the funeral on Friday.

Interment was at Norman Lutheran Cemetery, rural Fertile.