Watch Lynette's Service

Lynette Hellum, age 74, of Ulen, MN, passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026, at her home, under the loving care of her family and HIA Hospice.

Lynette Darlene Brogren was born on October 10, 1951, in Detroit Lakes, MN, to Kenneth “Kenny” and Doris (Fagerlie) Brogren. She grew up in Ulen, where she was baptized and confirmed at Atlanta Lutheran Church and graduated with the class of 1969. Following high school, Lynette moved to Minneapolis and began working for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company.

In the early 1970s, Lynette met and married Merle “Sonny” Hellum Jr. Together, they made their home in the Twin Cities and raised three children: Carrie, Tracy, and Chad. The family also spent a few years living in Arizona before returning to the Twin Cities area. Lynette and Sonny later separated in 1998. In retirement, Lynette returned to her hometown of Ulen, where she enjoyed being close to family.

Throughout her working years, Lynette held positions with several companies, including various title companies in the Twin Cities. She eventually found her true calling with Olympus Medical Supply Co., where she dedicated more than 15 years before retiring. Retirement didn’t keep Lynette from staying busy. She later worked as a kitchen assistant for Ulen-Hitterdal Schools, a job she especially enjoyed because of the children.

Lynette also had a generous heart and willingly gave her time to others. Over the years, she volunteered with several organizations, including the Anoka Food Shelf, Habitat for Humanity, Feed My Starving Children, and, most recently, the Viking Museum in Ulen.

In her spare time, Lynette loved going antiquing with her sisters, always on the lookout for a new treasure, and trips to IKEA. She enjoyed crafting and especially treasured visits with her nieces and nephews. Lynette had a soft spot for animals, particularly dogs, and was always willing to rescue a stray or help care for a neighbor’s pet. That love led to a special bond with her beloved rescue dog, Henry.

Lynette enjoyed making updates to her home, and had plenty more projects planned. She enjoyed her cow wall art that popped up in various rooms of her house.  She was also a diehard Minnesota Vikings fan, and when the Vikings were playing, everyone knew better than to interrupt her while she was cheering on her team. Lynette had a big heart, a caring spirit, and a personality all her own. She will be deeply missed by the many family members and friends who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Lynette is survived by her children: Carrie (Steve) Landes, Tracy Hellum, and Chad (Amanda) Hellum; brother, Ken (Carolyn) Brogren; sisters, Valerie (Rand) Alland and Carol (John) Rikhus; brother-in-law, Steve (Gloria) Kent; and best friend, Vicki Swenson.

Lynette was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Barbara Kent and Janice Hardesty; and beloved furry companion, Henry.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with a visitation starting one hour before, at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley, MN. Lynette’s family kindly request that guests dress casually and wear Vikings gear or Vikings colors in her memory.