Helen Wegner | 1941 - 2024
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Sep 13, 2024 | 1:54 PM / 146 views
Pierre, SD – Helen Virginia Wegner passed away on September 9, 2024, in Pierre, South Dakota, the place she called home for nearly her entire life. Born on November 23, 1941, to Varro and Saloma “Sammie” Fischer Wegner, she was the youngest sibling, growing up alongside her brothers Hank and Anton “Tony” Wegner. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30am, Monday, September 16, 2024 at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church with visitation an hour prior from 9:30-10:30am. Burial will follow at Scotty Philip Cemetery.
Helen graduated from Pierre High School in 1960, and her academic journey took her to St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota, and then to Iowa State University in Ames, where she earned a degree in Foods and Nutrition in 1964. Helen often joked about attending Iowa State on a “twirling scholarship.”
After 13 years with General Mills in Minneapolis, Helen returned to Pierre, where she made her mark by serving in Governor Janklow’s Cabinet as the Secretary of State Development. She later transitioned into the investment sector, working with BankWest before eventually running her own independent investment office until she retired.
Helen was deeply connected to her community. She led the Pierre Centennial Committee in 1981, celebrating the city’s 100th anniversary. Her service extended to various charitable organizations, where she contributed her time and expertise.
Helen loved traveling and experiencing new places. She particularly enjoyed trips to Nantucket with her girlfriends.
Beyond her many accomplishments, Helen was a friend to many, known for her kindness, sense of humor, and a love of a good happy hour. Her famous line, “I might be making this up, but…” brought smiles to those who knew her. A lifelong Mickey Mouse fan, Helen balanced her playful nature with a deep faith, remaining a devoted member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church throughout her life.
Helen is survived by her nephew Jim (Beverly) Wegner, niece Judy (Kirk Miller) Wegner, nephew-in-law Mike “Boo” Boocock, great-nieces Drew Miller, Taylor Miller, Sara Boocock, great-nephew Bryan Boocock, and Carla Sahr and family. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and niece Jenny Wegner (Boocock).
Helen’s laughter, generosity, and service will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. May her memory continue to light up the lives of those who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church or to Paws Animal Rescue.
Feigum Funeral Home has been entrused with Helen’s arrangements. View feigumfh.com for details.
