Helen Maanum

Helen Elizabeth Maanum, 88, a resident of Fergus Falls, died Thursday, October 8, 2009, at Mill Street Residence in Fergus Falls. She was born July 31, 1921, in Wessington Springs, South Dakota, the daughter of Frederick and Susie (Titus) Krohmer. She grew up on a farm with her brother, Fay Krohmer. Helen met John Maanum in 1948, in Mobridge, South Dakota, where she was a school teacher and John was working for JCPenney. They were married on June 12, 1949, and moved to Wheaton, Minnesota, where they had two children, Paul and Jan. Helen and John spent 30 years in Willmar, Minnesota, and 25 years in Sun City, Arizona. She was a 55 year member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and was an active member at Bethel Lutheran Church in Willmar and American Lutheran Church of Sun City, Arizona. Helen was an avid bridge player and enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles. She and John especially enjoyed entertaining, hosting gatherings for their many friends.  She enjoyed many wonderful summers with her family at their lake home on Diamond Lake near Willmar. Survivors include her children, Paul Maanum of Carmel, Indiana, and Jan Kjellerup of Fergus Falls, MN, four grandchildren, Ryan (Julie) Maanum, Shari (Monte) Nicholls, Sarah (Tedd) Muchow, and Benjamin Froslee, and seven great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her husband, John, in 2000 and a great-grandson, in 2004. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 12, 2009, at Mill Street Residence in Fergus Falls with Reverend Matt Philaya officiating. Interment will be at the American Lutheran Church in Sun City, AZ. Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com