Date : 08 Apr 1927
Location : St. Mary's Cemetery, Rock Valley, IA
Thomas Helstern age sixty-three, died at his home in Rock Valley Tuesday evening, April 5th. Mr. Helstern came to Rock Valley as a mere youth in 1886 where he has since continued to reside. He was a carpenter by trade and acted as councilman for a period of 30 years and was also fire chief, having held both of these offices when the death angel claimed him. Many of the homes in this town were built by Mr. Helstern, as well as farm homes and buildings. Mr. Helstern was also a firm believer in education and lived to see his youngest daughter graduate from the Mankato Normal school.
Mr. Helstern leaves to mourn his wife and children as follows: Mrs. Gordon Wilson of Hinton, Edward of Rock Valley, Mrs. B.L. Kessler, Sioux City, Mrs. Anna Murray of Omaha, Miss Alberta of Sioux City, William and Margaret of Rock Valley, besides other relatives and a large circle of friends. Funeral services were held Friday at St. Mary's Catholic church of which he was a faithful member, conducted by Rev. J.J. O'Riely, the pastor of the parish. Interment was made in St. Mary's cemetery. Many beautiful floral offerings decked his last resting place. All the business places were closed during the funeral services. The funeral was one of the largest and it was necessary to use chairs to seat all the people in attendance.
Alton Democrat - Apr 15, 1927
