Helen Pronek, 89

Helen Theresa Pronek, 89, died Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at Douglas County Hospital from interstitial pulmonary fibrosis.

Helen was born November 28, 1922 in Leven Township, Pope County to Wencil and Mary (Hiebel) Mrnak. She was the third of four children born to her parents. Charlie was born in 1915, Bennie in 1918, Helen in 1922 and Mary stole the baby title in 1939. Helen attended District 18 through the 8th grade.

Helen married Benny Hanson on July 22, 1941. The couple moved to St. Paul for a short time and moved back to Reno Township. Helen worked as a waitress at the Soo Line Beanery in Glenwood. They started a resort on Lake Reno. Benny died in 1954. Helen later married Charlie Pronek on November 6, 1956. She worked alongside Charlie farming. Helen raised chickens which she used the egg proceeds for her spending money. She also butchered ducks and geese in the fall for extra spending money. In 1991, the couple moved off the farm to the shores of Maple Lake. Charlie died in 2002.

Helen always had a big garden, which she gave up at the age of 75. She enjoyed crocheting, embroidery, making quilts, dancing, reading books, playing cards, especially whist, cooking and baking.

She is survived by children, Gary (Kathy) Hanson, Wencil (Monica) Pronek, Marie (John) Stellner, and Mark Pronek, all of Alexandria; grandchildren, Jody Norris, Becky (Brian) Bogart, Tessa (Ryan) Spencer, Brian Hanson, Kayla (Joe) Conrad, Jenna (Scott) Nosbush and Cassie Pronek; great-grandchildren, Justin, Matthew, Ian, Gannon Jr., Dantae, and Charlie; brother, Bennie (Lorraine) Mrnak of Alexandria; sister, Mary Pehan of Glenwood; and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Wencil and Mary; husbands, Benny and Charlie; and brother, Charlie.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, August 24 at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church in Reno Township with the Rev. Roger Thoennes officiating. Music was provided by organist, Ann Zavadil and soloist, Pat Kalina. Interment was at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Cemetery. Casket bearers were Helen’s grandchildren and honorary casket bearers were Helen’s great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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