Helen Irene Schwartz

Memorial services for Helen I. Schwartz age 80 of Albert Lea will be held on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. at First Lutheran Church.  Pastor John Holt will officiate.  Burial will be private.  Family and friends will gather one hour prior to the services at the church.  Online condolences are welcome at www.bayviewfuneral.com

Helen died on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018 at St. John’s Lutheran Retirement Community surrounded by her family.

Helen Irene Schwartz was born on March 30, 1938 in Cambridge, Wisconsin the daughter of Henry and Anna (Olia) Simdon.  She attended and graduated from Cambridge High School in 1956.  Helen furthered her education at St. Olaf College graduating in 1960 with a degree in music.  On Dec. 30, 1961 Helen was united in marriage to Thomas Schwartz in Cambridge, Wisconsin the couple would have celebrated 57 years together.  Helen taught Music before she became a stay at home “mom” raising her children.  She had a great love of music, having played in the St. Olaf College Orchestra, a member of the Albert Lea Community Band, playing the French horn and trumpet.  Helen shared her talents of music in various churches in Albert Lea and sang in the church choir at First Lutheran Church. She had a great interest in genealogy and learned to speak and write Norwegian in order to complete her research. Helen also enjoyed sewing of many different styles, scrapbooking, doing projects, traveling and taking care of her family. 

Helen is survived by her husband, Thomas Schwartz, children: Anita Schwartz,  Mike (Paula) Schwartz, Joel (Karen) Schwartz, Charles (Shawnessy) Schwartz and Daniel (Anna) Schwartz.  7 grandchildren; Matthew, Mia, Jack, Sam, Nick, John and Emma Schwartz.  Sisters:  Marjorie (Elmer) Redford and Caroline Burow and brother, Richard (Donna) Simdon.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, brother Claire Simdon and brother-in-law Lynn Burow.