Helga Margarete Stoudamire

Helga was born on September 3, 1937, in Bleialf, Germany, to John and Louise (Kraemer) Wirtzfeld. In 1955, she immigrated to the United States with her parents, brother, and sister, settling in Omaha, Nebraska.

Not long after, she met and married Werner F. Stratbucker, with whom she shared many happy years and welcomed two beloved daughters.

Helga built a rewarding career with Nelson News Company, where she managed City News and Book (later renamed Read All About It) in downtown Omaha. For twenty-five years, she took great joy in her work, forming lasting friendships with coworkers and loyal patrons. Her love of books and curiosity about the world made the store feel like a second home.

A devoted reader throughout her life, Helga devoured bestsellers and daily newspapers—especially The New York Times and The Washington Post, which she read cover to cover.

In retirement, Helga, then married to Charles Stoudamire enjoyed countless days at their Missouri cabin, where they could often be found fishing, reading, and savoring the quiet moments of life.

Helga is survived by her daughters Monica (Scott) Donovan and Michelle (Troy) Reiners; grandchildren Brandon (Christina) Bullard, Parker (Brittney) Ackland, Nicole (Eric) Hamel; step-grandchild Sydney (Tyler) Wilhelms; and her brother Dieter (Sharman) Wirtzfeld.

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles Stoudamire; her parents, Louise and John Wirtzfeld; and her sister, Christel Metzinger.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, yet to be determined.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of Sumner Place in Lincoln for their compassion and kindness.