Irene Marie Helm

Irene Marie Helm passed away peacefully at her home in Marysville Wa after a battle with cancer on January 2nd, 2013. Irene was born on February 11th, 1927 to Andrew and Louise Schacher in Washburn, ND. Irene met her future husband when a friend invited Ephriam Helm to Irene’s 16th birthday party. The couple was married on April 11, 1947 after they headed to Wibaux, Mt. to be witnesses at a friend’s wedding. After performing the first ceremony the Justice-of-the-Peace asked if they wanted to get married and they said “Why Not?” They were married for 62 years when Ephriam passed away in 2010.

Irene worked at several department store soda fountains and other retail jobs as she moved to Bismarck, ND, Newport, Wa, Bonners Ferry, ID, and Lewiston, ID. Her favorite job during those years was selling tickets to dances where Ephriam was playing one of his steel guitars. Irene spent a lot of time volunt! eering with church groups and school PTA’s. She was the president of the Baptist Women group for Emmanuel Baptist Church for several terms. She used to say she hated missing meetings because every time she did she got elected to another office. Irene was well known for her crocheting and other craft projects. Her Afghans and southern dolls were always sought after items. She prided herself in teaching many people her different crafts.

Irene lived in Lewiston, ID. for over 40 years where she raised several foster kids and her own Children. She had one son Andrece and an adopted Daughter, Rita, and an adopted Son, Joel. She had 5 grandchildren Daniel, Joshua, Angellica, Jessica, and Jacob, and two step grandchildren Hanna and Aaron. Irene had a large extended family with 18 siblings and in-laws. Irene loved her family. She loved being a mom and she cherished being a grandma. Irene will be missed by all of us.

A Celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday April 11th in the Orchid Room at Morgan's Alley in Lewiston with a reception to follow.