Data submitted by ©Sharon Bearce

Descendants of Frederick (Friedrich) Helle

1. Frederick (Friedrich) Helle Sr. (Immigrant) was born on 21 Jun 1835 in Ruethen Germany, died on 28 Mar 1907 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 71, and was buried in Mar 1907 in Baughman Cemetery, Smithfield IL.

Front: Kate (Helle) Blout, Carrie (Helle) Walters, Frederick Helle Sr., Katharine (Krauser) Helle, Tracy (Helle) Fouts & Dena (Helle) Kuehn.
Back: George Adam, Mary (Helle) Gray, Frederick Helle Jr., Lizzie (Helle) Orwig, Bert (Helle) Bolon, and Anthony Helle
Wilhelm "Willie" Helle is seated on the ground. Picture taken in 1896.

General Notes: Clipping from Canton Daily Register reads:

FRED HELLE SR. Respected Old Citizen of Cass Township who was buried Saturday. Fred Helle, Sr., died Thursday at his home in Cass Township, north of Smithfield, aged nearly 72 years. The cause of death was lung fever. Burial was on Saturday in the Brock cemetery. The Rev. Mr. Douglas, of Cuba, officiated at the funeral. Mr. Helle was born in June, 1835, in Westphalia, Prussia and came to America in 1857 landing in New Orleans .He worked for several months in St. Louis, Chicago, Bloomington and Peoria and came to Canton in November 1859, remaining about a year, when he went to Macomb, where he was married, in 1860, to Miss Catharina Krauser. In 1863 Mr. and Mrs. Helle removed to Chicago, and a few months later he entered government service since in Louisville, KY, as a baker, continuing in this capacity until the end of the civil war. He then located in Bushnell and in 1869 settled on the farm on which his death occurred.
Of a family of 13 children,11 are living and Mrs. Helle survives her husband. At this writing, Mrs. Helle is dangerously ill.

Ethel: "Grandfather Helle never allowed the children to speak English at home. He was a very strict disciplinarian. This must be why our dad was such a gentle man. He really enjoyed all of us, was so proud of his big family. The Helle family had a brewery in Germany for five hundred years. About fifty years ago it closed. When his father's estate was settled, they sent him several thousand dollars, a lot of money then."

Frederick Helle, born in Germany, was 22 when he sailed for the new world. Fred was born into a well -respected upper middle class family. He offended the German empire when requesting passage by finally saying, "If I want to go to America, the king of Prussia and all his army can not stop me." This was considered a direct insult to his majesty, the king, and his army, and disrespect for the government. Fred said "The gendarmes were sent to arrest me and I determined to flee to America. In fact, I was arrested three different times, but with the assistance of a friend, Frederick Bush, the government emigration agent, I eluded the police and was hidden away among some boxes, and was soon on my way to a country where the freedom of speech is not prohibited by law." He told of additional attempts to arrest him while on the ship, but he hid in disguise. He landed in New Orleans in 1857, with about $90 in his pocket. He worked in St. Louis then worked as a baker in Chicago for 10 months, and on to Bloomington, harvesting farms for 50 cents a day. Then he worked on what is now the CB&Q Railroad in Peoria until he moved to Canton, Illinois in Nov. 1858. In Canton he worked for George Nagel's bakery at$8.00 a month. He moved to Macomb in May 1859 and opened a bakery and restaurant with Mr. Vogi. He was married in Macomb, Illinois in 1860 and sold his interest in the business to move to Chicago and open a saloon on Milwaukee Ave. After just five months he sold the business and went into government employ.

At the time that Fred had insisted upon leaving for America, he was in the process of being forced into an arranged marriage he strongly objected to.

Helle Sawmill History - Fred Helle and Katherine Krauser were German emigrants who met and married near the Spoon River Country, about fifty miles west of Peoria. In 1869 Fred Helle purchased 80 acres of unimproved heavy timbered land, near Spoon River, Fulton Co., IL.
Noted events in his life were:
" Naturalization: 2 Nov 1863, Chicago, Illinois. Superior Court
Frederick married Catharine (Katharina) Krauser (Immigrant on 4 Sep 1860 in Macomb, Illinois. Catharine was born on 25 Feb 1839 in Mosbach, Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, was christened in <Mosbach/Hessen>, died on 15 Jul 1921 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 82, and was buried in Jul 1921 in Baughman Cemetery, Smithfield, Fulton Co., IL. Another name for Catharine was Kate Krauser.

Children from this marriage were:
+ 2 F    i. Maria Theresa "Tracy" Helle was born on 25 Mar 1869 in Bushnell, Illinois, died on 28 May 1928 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 59, and was buried in Ellisville, Illinois, Wiley Lutheran Cemetery.

+ 3 M    ii. George Adam Helle was born on 27 Oct 1873 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 23 Nov 1943 in Freeport, Illinois at age 70, and was buried in Nov 1943 in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.

+ 4 F    iii. Brighetta Bertha "Bert" Helle was born on 22 Nov 1878 in Rural Smithfield, IL, died on 26 Nov 1951 in Canton, Illinois at age 73, and was buried in Nov 1951 in Greenwood Cemetery, Canton, Illinois.

+ 5 F    iv. Franciska Elisabeth "Lizzie" Helle was born on 21 Aug 1861 in Macomb, Illinois, died on 1 May 1943 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 81, and was buried in May 1943 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

 
  Second Generation  


2. Maria Theresa "Tracy" Helle was born on 25 Mar 1869 in Bushnell, Illinois, died on 28 May 1928 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 59, and was buried in Ellisville, Illinois, Wiley Lutheran Cemetery.
General Notes: Tracy and Sherm both died at early ages just 2 months apart in age, leaving their daughter to run the farm alone.

MARIA THERESA "TRACY" HELLE was the sixth child of a family of thirteen children of Frederick and Katharine Frances (Krauser) Helle. According to diaries kept by Tracy, daughter, Alta, and sister, Dena and information gathered from various relatives and friends, Tracy was a very quiet, hard-working woman. She received numerous letters and beautiful cards from her many relatives and friends. Many of these are in the possession of her oldest grandchild, Ava (Helle) Boyce. Tracy was especially close to her older sister, Dena Kuehn, and a younger sister, Kate Blout. Sister, Kate, lived a mile south and part of their family farms joined each other. As teenagers, Dena and Tracy spent some of their spare time picking wild blackberries which were traded at a grocery store in Smithfield for necessary items. One frivolous purchase was a beautiful glass candy or square cake dish with a glass cover which has been handed down through the generations. The girls gave it to their mother. Dena had it for quite some time and then gave it to Tracy who gave it to her daughter, Alta. Alta gave it to her oldest daughter, Ava (Helle) Boyce. The diaries kept by Tracy give details of a quiet farm woman's life in the early 1900's. Her greatest enjoyment was listening to an old Edison Phonograph in earlier years and listening to the radio from 1926 on. She had a record collection that would be the envy of her great - grandchildren in the stereo era. Several hundred cylinder records have survived the years. Many hours were spent on necessary sewing construction. All dresses, slips, underwear, towels, household items and baby layette were hand-constructed. She made numerous quilts, crocheted bedspreads, tablecloths, dresser scarves for her own household as well as gifts for neighbors, friends and relatives. She crocheted rugs in 1926 which a great - grandson and wife used as "mud rugs" in 1980. A great - granddaughter uses one of Tracy's crocheted bedspreads as a sofa throw in her home in 1985.

Tracy's marriage to ROBERT SHERMAN "SHERM" FOUTS made at least four different publications according to newspaper clippings kept by her sister, Dena Kuehn:

"Sherman Fouts and Miss Tracy Helle were married in Lewistown on Monday, Dec. 16, 1895. The TIMES (London Mills Times) extends its warmest congratulations and trusts that Mr. and Mrs. Fouts may have a pleasant journey down life's pathway. "There were some aggravating circumstances to these young people connected with the above event, and it isn't exactly telling tales out of school for the writer to tell them now that they have ended happily. The wedding was to have taken place at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. Fred Helle, south east of here, on Sunday. The license, a necessary adjunct to such an event, was sent for early in the week preceding. Sunday morning at last came, but the license came not, yet the parties thought probably some other member of the family had received the precious document out of the office and would bring it with them. The guests arrived, Squire Mitchell among the number, he coming to officiate. The wedding dinner was ready, and then it was discovered that the license had really not been received at all. Two friends were immediately dispatched to Lewistown to find out what caused the delay and to bring the lost paper. When they arrived there they found both the clerk and his deputy out of the city spending Sunday with relatives. They learned, however, that the license had been issued in regular form and mailed on Wednesday. With this unsatisfactory news they returned to Mr. Helle's and the guests and the Squire were obliged to return home, having eaten of the wedding dinner but having failed to witness the ceremony and kiss the bride.
Maria married Robert "Sherman" Fouts on 16 Dec 1895 in Lewistown, Fulton Co., Illinois. Robert was born on 9 Sep 1866 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 6 Jul 1928 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 61, and was buried in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

The child from this marriage was:
+ 6 F    i. Alta Flora Fouts was born on 26 Feb 1899 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 13 Sep 1974 in Macomb, Illinois at age 75, and was buried in Sep 1974 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

3. George Adam Helle was born on 27 Oct 1873 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 23 Nov 1943 in Freeport, Illinois at age 70, and was buried in Nov 1943 in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.
General Notes: George Adam Helle was born on the Helle homestead NW of Smithfield. His son Joe told about the lives of his parents: "When Dad was a youngster, Grandfather Helle got involved with a thick and thin sawmill. When the regular sawyer failed to show up for work, Dad tried his hand at sawing and was never able to let go again. Somewhere Dad also found a fiddle and this too he could not let go of. Not a violinist, he could not read music, but in his youth his musical talent was a main source of income earned at barn dances. Somewhere about that period in his life he became enamored with a girl from the Buckeye country and life was never the same again. His carefree days were behind him. Sawmills, threshing machines and this Buckeye girl were his life from then on. Their first home was a small house in Smithfield. With three boys in a few short years, they moved to a larger home across the street. Then five boys an a move to a farm in the country to hold the growing family. Next a girl, then what Five more boys. With a reputation far and wide then, yes, two more girls for a total of 13. Sawmilling, farming, threshing. A disastrous detour into a coal mining project. There were many set-backs common to us all. The older sister and many of the older sons were establishing homes of their own when Dad and the younger boys gave up farming and headed back to the tall timber where they were more at home. At this time, if you listen, you can hear the whine of a chain saw or the deeper voice of a circular saw and know those Helle boys have not found their way out of the woods"

Helle Sawmill History - Fred Helle and Katherine Krauser were German emigrants who met and married near the Spoon River Country. In 1869 Fred purchased 80 acres of unimproved heavy timbered land in Cass County for $300. The family found shelter in a cattle shed on a bluff overlooking Spoon River. He erected a cabin on a hill. Frederick and Katharine worked clearing the land for the plow. About 1873, Fred bought a small sawmill to saw the timber on his farm. Their home caught on fire and the family once again was forced to take shelter in the cattle shed. He reconstructed another cabin, which also later burned. The first sawmills used 10 to 30 horsepower steam engines. All sawmills were portable, pulled by horses from one job to another. Horses were used to skid logs until the mid 30's, when caterpillar tractors took their place. Around 1882, Fred's son, George, took over the operation of the sawmill. George re located the sawmill to Kewanee and to Wyoming, IL before selling it in 1940. George died in 1943. George's sons have continued in the Sawmill Industry.

Ethel: "Dad was such a gentle man. He really enjoyed all of us, was so proud of his big family. He was very sensitive about being German and the Germans starting World War I, and World War II. Dad's first and last occupation was sawmills. He was such a capable lumber man, he could walk through a woods and estimate the number of board feet in it. He could add long numbers in his head quickly without pencil and paper. One form of entertainment when Dad was a young man was debates. It is said he never lost a debate, and one senator said to him, after losing a debate to George, "What do you do for a living" Dad told him he ran a sawmill. The senator then said, "My god, man, quit it and go to school." Pop always told us kids, "Once you lose your temper, you lose your argument." Dad was a great believer in self-education, only having four years of school himself. His older sisters taught him English in secret. They were not allowed to use it at home. Pop always had to have his Chicago Tribune which he would read and drop on the floor. Mom scolded him for being messy until one day, in their early days of marriage, Pop was working away from home doing threshing and became very ill. Mom went to care for him and in his delirious fever he was saying "Ida, I'll pick the papers up", over and over. After that she never scolded him about the papers."


George married Ida Lodema Kaler Mayflower Desc., daughter of Joseph Franklin Kaler Mayflower Desc. and Nancy Paulina Bayless (Twin), on 1 Sep 1901 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois. Ida was born on 19 Oct 1878 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 17 Dec 1971 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 93, and was buried in Dec 1971 in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.

Children from this marriage were:
+ 7 M    i. Lloyd Charles Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 10 Jan 1903 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 17 Feb 1984 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 81, and was buried in Feb 1984 in Smithfield Cemetery, Cuba, Illinois.
   8 M    ii. Royle George Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 23 Feb 1904 in Smithfield, Illinois, died on 30 Sep 1979 in Canton, Illinois at age 75, and was buried in Oct 1979 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL. (for more stories about Royle)
 

Alta and Royle Helle

General Notes: Royle played clarinet, piano, drums and saxophone, violin and saw. He taught guitar, banjo and accordion. Of course he always said, "I'm a fiddler, My brother Delbert is a violinist". Performing for church and community events gave him particular enjoyment. He tuned pianos, gave music lessons and repaired musical instruments for just a "thank you". Royle farmed on Spoon River from 1929 into the 1970's. He did some lumbering with his father and brothers from his late teens to 1925. He represented McDonough County at a state Farm Bureau meeting. He was a lifelong member of the Lee Township Farm Bureau. He was a member of the Mid Century Telephone Company. Royle graduated from Cuba High School, Cuba, Illinois and attended a few months of trade school in Chicago area and Jacksonville College in Jacksonville, IL. He traveled with a carnival one summer.
Sister Ethel: "Royle, the musician, was a farmer. He taught music to al of his children. Together they formed the "Helle Family Band". In later years he played music with his grandchildren. Royle was one of the main attractions at the Spoon River Drive, held in Fulton County each fall. We lost Royle and his music just before the Spoon River Drive in 1979."

A granddaughters tribute by Paula Helle: "Grandpa loved music; everything was musical -bailing hay, cherries bouncing in the bottom of a pail - it was all music to him. After all, how many people do you know who play a saw two bows, no less! At the age of six he had me chording on the piano while he played fiddle tunes. Not too long after, Grandpa had his granddaughters performing here and there with him, for a while it was every weekend. A book could be written about the life of Royle Helle, but to simplify, he loved people and people loved him. He will long be remembered."

Nephew Lee Helle: "Uncle Royle, his musical abilities are known far and wide, but my memories of this man are a little different, at the age of 7 maybe 10 years I watched him pull a catfish out of the Spoon River with his bare hands."

An article editorial written by Wendy Jo Martin in the Lewistown, IL paper after the death of Royle, was a tribute to a great man who touched many lives. She writes "Royle was a sharing man, and he shared his talents with his grandchildren and the tradition will be carried on by his granddaughters, Paula and Norma. But it won't be the same. There was a love in his music that I don't believe will ever be duplicated. There was a lot of love in the man." Wendy printed one of Royle's poetic letters, published in the booklet he authored, "Royle Helle, Spoon River Poet and Lois Green, Tennessee Hillbilly Poet." The book contained poetic letters written between two friends who never met in person. Royle had published the book in Lois's memory after her sudden death. In one letter, Royle wrote to Lois: "Five times the stork brought us great joy. Three times a girl and two times a boy. And now they are grown and gone away. My favorite is in her grave, so beautiful and gay. The Lord wanted her in Heaven -the people to cheer. While we down here shed many a tear. As I sit here with tears on my face, I tell you this sorrow time can not erase. I just looked out the window and what do I see, Three grandsons of mine, to visit Grandma and me. I wipe my tears and get to my feet. And go to the door, my grandsons to greet. I pick up little Stevie and I hold him tight, and all at once, the sun is shining bright. Royle Helle. Wendy Jo continues the editorial: "Now, Royle is with the one that went away, leaving the sun dull and unshining for the rest of us...I am sure if those passing through to their next Spoon River Scenic Drive destination, take a moment to stop on that now quiet country side they will hear the songs of Royle's saw- played with "two bows" at once, reverberating in the wind."

By Niece, Sharon Bearce: "About the time that Uncle Royle was diagnosed with Cancer, we began to write poetic letters. These letters continued until his death. I will not attempt to rewrite all of them, for they represent many years of sometimes several times a week. I haven't had the heart to write such poetic letters since my dear, dear Uncle went to join the angels in heaven. My dear cousin Ava, who has also joined her father in heaven, gave me the poetic letters that I wrote to Uncle Royle. I had kept all of his letters to me. I intended one day to put them all together in a book, but just never quite had the heart to do so. They bring back so many memories, that I wasn't sure they were meant to be shared.

I had the greatest Uncles and Aunts that God ever blessed anyone with. My mother, who left me a legacy that I will never begin to fully live up to, is also gone. In tribute to all of the Helle's no longer with us, and in tribute to Uncle Royle, a beloved and dear friend, I would like to share the following poems....

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On September 30, 1979 I lost this dear beloved Uncle. Life would never be the same. Poetry would never again be written, as no longer was my heart in it.

But one strange thing happened on the day that Uncle Royle died. He passed on in the afternoon when the children were in school. My youngest son, Danny, came home from school, walked in the house, and the first words he spoke were "Uncle Royal died today, didn't he" When my mother asked him how he knew, Dan answered "I saw him". Dan went on to explain how he had been in study hall with his head down on the desk. All at once he saw the sky open up and saw Uncle Royal standing on a cloud with a big smile and waving to him. In his hand was a saw, a regular saw that he always entertained us with playing it like a violin. He was waving with the saw in his hand. We all knew Uncle Royal was telling us goodbye. The timing of the vision that Dan had and the death of our dear uncle coincided within minutes.

I will always believe in my heart that Uncle Royal was an angel sent from God to make life a little better for all of us who had the good fortune to know him.
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Royle married Alta Flora Fouts, daughter of Robert "Sherman" Fouts and Maria Theresa "Tracy" Helle, on 3 Aug 1929 in Kahoka, MO. Alta was born on 26 Feb 1899 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 13 Sep 1974 in Macomb, Illinois at age 75, and was buried in Sep 1974 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

Children from this marriage were:
Ava Janene Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 9 Apr 1930 in Fulton County, IL and died on 7 Jan 1994 in Fulton County, Illinois at age 63.
Lodema "Joyce" Helle Mayflower Descendant was born on 22 Oct 1934 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 21 Feb 1948 in Bushnell, McDonough, IL at age 13, and was buried in Feb 1948 in Ellisville, Illinois, Wiley Lutheran Cemetery.

General Notes:
LODEMA JOYCE HELLE was the fourth child of Alta (Fouts) and Royle Helle. As musically talented as her father and siblings, Joyce enjoyed the family band and performing. At thirteen years of age she was a happy, caring teenager. In late December, 1947, Joyce became ill with measles and the resulting high fever caused secondary encephalitis and she lapsed into a coma from which she never recovered. In addition to the complications caused by the measles, it was the opinion of two doctors that Joyce also had a brain tumor. This tragic situation had an unusual parallel. On 20 March 1943, Alta, suffering from severe head pain, was taken to Graham Hospital in Canton in the middle of the night. In the early morning hours, Dr. E. P. Coleman operated and removed a mastoid tumor. Alta recovered completely. After three weeks of hospitalization and no signs of improvement, Alta and Royle took Joyce home. She was lovingly cared for through the last five weeks of her dying by her parents, her Uncle Joe and Aunt Myrtle Helle, other aunts and uncles and friends.
Besides the normal helplessness and grief one faces when the death of a loved one occurs,".. . the order of nature was reversed, for children are supposed to bury their parents." --Camus. The slow agonizing death of Joyce was one sorrow, time did not erase for her parents and family.

Lee Helle: "From the age of four to six I lived at the home of Uncle Royle, after that many school summer vacations were spent on his farm. Uncle Royle's two children closest to myself in age were like brother and sister to me. The mischief we didn't get into was never invented. The loss of Joyce hit this thirteen old very hard, her smiling face and corn silk blonde hair is a picture still fresh in my mind."

Alta's saddest times in her life were at the time of her parents' deaths in 1928 and twenty years later in February of 1948 when her third daughter, Joyce, died. As she ruefully confided to her remaining family, "The Gods Were Angry With Me For Being So Happy," and she was happy with her five children and husband. Her first child was born when she was thirty-one years of age. It took adjusting on her part to take care of five children after being raised as an only child.
  
9 M    iii. Joseph Arlie "Joe" Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 8 Jan 1906 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 7 Nov 2000 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 94, and was buried in Nov 2000 in Fulton County, IL.
 

Joseph & Myrtle Bolon Helle

 
Joseph married Myrtle Muriel Bolon Mayflower Desc., daughter of Samuel "Perry" Bolon Mayflower Desc. and Alta Ellen McCance, on 23 Aug 1930 in Carthage, Hancock Co., Illinois. Myrtle was born on 5 Oct 1907 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 Mar 1965 in Canton, Illinois at age 57, and was buried in Mar 1965 in Baughman Cemetery, Smithfield IL.
Joseph next married Henrietta Stevenson on 6 Oct 1965. Henrietta was born on 9 Oct 1920 in Fiatt, Fulton County, Illinois, died on 26 Mar 2005 in Fulton County, IL at age 84, and was buried on 2 Apr 2005.

Henrietta Stevenson Helle
General Notes: Joe wrote this little story, published in the book, "Frederick Helle & Katharine Krauser" by Alice Riley in 1985:

"When I came to Smithfield barefooted and bare bottomed, up to the present (1983). One of thirteen children, ten boys and three girls. When five sons overflowed the village of Smithfield in a few short years, Dad took his growing family to the country for more space. I never knew if the move was by request or by choice. I had the usual experiences of going to a country school, a little high school and then a drop out. Then a much larger school; the school of hard work and hard knocks. We grew up with steam threshing machines and sawmills trying to keep up with many problems that are a part of life. I married a country girl, Myrtle Muriel Bolon, in 1930. I continued in sawmill and lumber business, bought a couple of farms along the way, which were mostly timbered. With ill health in the family and no children, I quit the lumber business and devoted my time to farming, which was my first love." "After the death of Myrtle, I married Henrietta Stevenson Jackson, a widow with two sons. Eventually I sold one farm, rented the other and retired to Cuba. I question retirement being a time of leisure".

Sheldon Helle: "As kids we learned early not to fib to Joe. He always knew when we were telling the truth and when we were not. We built a fire too close to the barn ONCE!!! Joe saw the smoke. We found out that was not a very smart thing to do. I still remember his tone of voice. He educated us. Fire of any kind near the hay was forbidden. Joe told us many tall tales as we were growing up. A great story teller. A great brother."

Gail Helle: "Joe was the rock of Gibraltar, the responsible guy, a good second father, always looked after us. One time Gene as a small boy, climbed the silo. As he reached the top, Joe was coming in with a load of hay. Gene slipped and by the time he hit the ground, Joe had made it across the barnyard and was waiting for him. (O'l Gene stood up at the supper table that night!) In the dark days of the depression Joe would come on Sunday and have new overalls for us boys and dresses for Charlotte and June. I can merely say, "Thank you, Big Brother". You always stood tall in the saddle to all your kid brothers. What a great father you would have been and how happy we all are to see you enjoying sons and grandchildren, even if you did wait to get them."

On July 14, 1966, Joe deeded to Smithfield eight lots as a playground at the south side of the village in memory of his deceased wife, Myrtle. The land was developed into a ball field for the young people of Smithfield area. To show their appreciation for the gift, the citizens of Smithfield named the playground Helle Park and dedicated it on Oct 4, 1985.

Nephew Lee Helle: "Uncle Joe had the ability to see through smoke and mirrors. He was devoted to the betterment of the Helle Clan and mankind. Joe was one of the major forces behind the research, and development and printing of the Helle Genealogy."
+ 10 M    iv. Delbert Vernon Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 24 Mar 1907 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 Aug 1990 in Farmington, Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Aug 1990 in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Farmington, IL.

+ 11 M    v. Donald Lee Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 30 Sep 1908 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 18 Jul 1961 in Tiskilwa, Illinois at age 52, and was buried in Jul 1961 in Bloom Cemetery, Tiskilwa, Illinois.
   12 F    vi. Ethel (Bertha Ethel) Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 24 Feb 1910 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 Apr 1996 in Mt. Morris, Illinois at age 86, and was buried in Apr 1996 in Mt. Morris, Illinois.

Don & Ethel Walton
Ethel married Donald "Don" Walton, son of George G. C. Walton and Rhoda E. P. Frew, on 2 Jun 1928 in Lewistown, Fulton Co., Illinois. Donald was born on 29 Oct 1908 in Astoria, Illinois, died on 17 Aug 2002 in Whitewater, Walworth, WI at age 93, and was buried on 19 Aug 2002 in Mt. Morris, Illinois.
General Notes:
In the book, "Memories" written by Ethel Walton, published in Feb 1981, she has a chapter, "My Husband, Don Walton". A few sentences from this chapter: "Don said he can remember his first day at school. He found out it is not wise to trip little girls. As Don recalls, this little girl was a happy child, who skipped along the side of Don toward the front girl was room. Temptation took over the second time she skipped to the front the second room. Just as she got beside him, he stuck out his foot and tripped her. She went flying to the front of the room on her belly. Don was taken before the class and given a whipping. As Don said, "This was my introduction to the class." Don jokes a lot, and one of the things he comes up with is, "I never had to worry about passing. They always passed me to get rid of me." Don also says the teachers used to argue about him, saying, "You take him, and No, you take him." ..... Cars were something children never even considered owning. It was a luxury for a family to own a car. Children who grew up in town walked wherever they wanted to go. Canton had street cars that Don could ride. They did not go far, but he would ride to the end of the rail and back, just for the ride. When Don was 16 he quit school and went to work to help pay the expenses when his sister Mabel was sick before she died. Don was 15 when he worked for a car dealer. Don drove a new car back from Detroit for the dealer....... He also worked at a Brick Yard at the age of 15. He was a busy boy, helping deliver milk, groceries, papers and other odd jobs boys in town could do."
When Ethel was writing her book, Don told her there were some things he would really rather forget. Ethel of course had to write this into her book: "What Don wanted to forget was the time he burnt his aunt's privy down. Don tells the story like this: "My folks took me to my aunts and were going to leave me there. I didn't want to stay, so I went out going to privies, where privies of newspapers were stacked up. It seemed like the logical thing to do, and I simply lit a match and the whole privie went up into flames." "I never did understand why Dad got so mad. It was only a privie.", Don said with a gleam in his eye. "It sure did get hot in here though, boy did it get hot...... I didn't have to stay at my aunts."
Ethel continues her story: "More than likely, the thing he really doesn't want talked about would be the time he was sleep walking. His mother never did get over her anger when someone would mention this, even after many years had passed. As I heard the story told, Don was sleepwalking one night, and must have had a dream about using the chamber pot, only when he woke, he had already woke his mother up, because it seems even after many her ear he was using instead of the pot. Don says, "I really don't know why she got so mad. After all, I didn't do it on purpose."

Ethel summarized Don's lifetime activities thus, "He has gone from a factory worker to a sawmill operator a truck driver and then back to the sawmill, a farmer on a small farm in Illinois to a large dairy farm in Wisconsin, a mobile home park builder in Wisconsin, a builder of house sand owner of an orange grove in Texas, a farm back in Wisconsin again, which he later subdivided and developed, another mobile park in Savanna,Illinois,and today our own house and ten acres of land.

Don Walton was a hard working, extremely intelligent and wise,and completely honest, successful, highly respected business man with strong moral values. Don was witty and fun to be around, always with a grin and a sparkle in his eyes. He was active and hardworking until nearly 90 years of age. He passed this world, quietly in the night just before his 94th birthday.
 
+ 13 M    vii. Walter "Walt" (William Frederick) Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 20 Jun 1912 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 18 Apr 2000 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 87, and was buried in Apr 2000 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.

+ 14 M    viii. Sheldon Lyle Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 25 Nov 1913 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 26 Jan 1997 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Jan 1997 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.
   15 M    ix. Verle Burdette Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 26 May 1917 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 3 Sep 1980 in Oregon, Ogle Co., Illinois at age 63, and was buried in Sep 1980 in Daysville Cemetery, Oregon, Illinois.

Verle and Willie Helle
Verle married Willena Baker (Twin) on 24 Nov 1943 in Palmyra, Missouri. Willena was born on 29 May 1920 in Summerville, Union Co., Oregon and died on 8 Nov 1965 in Oregon, Ogle Co., Illinois at age 45.
Verle next married Dorothy Whisman on 4 Jun 1966 in Oregon, Ogle Co., Illinois. Dorothy was born about 1925 and died on 3 Oct 2004 in Florida about age 79.
General Notes:
Verle Burdette Helle was the eighth son born to George and Ida Helle. Ethel, his sister, stated that Verle was her roommate until Charlotte was born in 1921. He was introduced first to farming while growing to maturity, but he too took to the sawmill business. Verle was a prime age to be drafted and was inducted into the U.S. Army Engineers in June of 1941. His training was at Ft. Riley, Kansas, and Ft. Louis, Washington. He spent most of the war years patrolling along the Pacific Coast from the Canadian border to the Mexican border. All bridges along the coast were mined in case of a Japanese coastal attack. In July of 1945, he was shipped to the Philippines. Near Eniwetok his ship passed a ship carrying his next younger brother back to the states. Verle was with the occupation forces of Japan until February of 1946 when he was discharged.

Charlotte: "Verle was one of these dashing handsome young men. Black eyes and gay, charming and a little more temper than Gail. Verle had a good friend, Bus White, son of the neighbor. They played jokes. Never any harm done, but always a gag here a joke there. I was very proud of my brothers. Verle and Hazel's two brothers had a band or orchestra. Verle and Bob Hendricks played violins, Verle a mouth harp along with violin, and Elmer the drums. Verle and Elmer were mischievous. We always say Verle was led astray by Elmer. Hazel says it was visa versa. Really they never got into trouble, just had clean fun. Sometimes funny. Verle and Gene went into the service and World War II started. Eventually Gail went also. All three came back, although Pop passed away in 1943."

In 1946, after the war, Gene and Verle Helle, started Helle Hardwoods at Oregon IL.

Sheldon wrote: "Verle had a great sense of humor. We had two neighbor boys, one named Athey and the other Pete. They lived close by and were together a lot. Verle got to calling them Ate and Pethey. They didn't think that was funny, but we did. There was never a dull moment when Verle was around. He was always fun to be around and fun to work with. I don't think anyone enjoyed life any more than Verle. Verle and Elmer and Hazel's other brother Bob played for dances. It was a country style orchestra. Verle and Bob played violins. Elmer played the banjo. They played old fashioned country style square dance music. Verle fixed up a harness out of wire to hold his mouth harp. It was hooked to his shoulders so he could play the mouth harp and the violin at the same time. He put on quite a one-man-show. These were such great days. While Verle was in Japan, to kill time, he somehow ended up going to a dance. It was a small country style dance like they used to have back home. He was fascinated by one of the Japanese playing the violin like he had played before the war. Of course he couldn't speak Japanese and the Japanese couldn't speak English. However, the Japanese violinist seemed to see something in Verle's eyes, and seemed to be able to read his mind, and handed Verle the violin. Verle always played by ear, so he could play their music. He fit in just fine and played with the Japanese band for several hours. He said it was one of the most memorable events he had ever experienced while in the service."
   16 M    x. Gene (Harley Eugene) Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 18 Jul 1918 in IL and died on 3 Sep 2004 in Arkansas at age 86.

Gene Helle
 

Maxine Helle
Gene married Maxine (Loretta Maxine) Heather in 1948. Maxine was born on 1 Nov 1927 and died on 11 Jul 1989 in IL at age 61.
General Notes:
Gene wrote his memories for his brother Sheldon, who was writing a family book titled "As I Remember My Family, Plus a Way of Life in the 20th Century." A few excerpts from this book follow: "Memories include going on Sunday picnics, fishing or hogging the wagon load of fish and dividing them up. (In hogging fish, the fishermen are swimming or wading in the water with the fish and sneak up on the fish and grab them with their hands). Then there were the trips every spring, pushing a stick and wheel all over the neighborhood, and in the Fall going barefoot until we walked home in the snow. And of course there were the many whippings I got in school. I quit school after a half year of high school and set up a mill southwest of Wyoming at the age of 17. I put a lot of Dad's worn out pieces together. "

Sheldon wrote about his brother Gene: "Gene was the best little kid and never bothered anyone. As he grew older, he was very good help on the farm and sawmill. He was a little on the stubborn side though. I remember his first year at high school. There was a rule that all freshmen had to wear green on St. Patrick's Day and use the south door. Gene refused to do either. He told them bigger kids that he would do as he Da## well pleased. He also informed them that he'd fight first, but they backed down."

Gene was a teenager when his parents and younger family members moved to Bureau County in northern Illinois. Gene and his brothers Verle and Gail, double dated all through school. They also worked together for several years until World War II separated them. Gene served in the US Navy for three years, (1942-1945) most of that time in the Pacific Theater. 1968-82 Gene and his family set up and operated a sawmill in Maui, Hawaii. They shipped logs all over the world.

Lee Helle: "At the age of three I spent many weeks at my grandparents, Uncle Gene being the youngest always seemed to be lucky enough to have me sleep in his bed. I can well remember one morning telling everyone that Uncle Gene had wet the bed and peed all over me. How else would I have got wet Uncle Gene had a Ford logging truck 1934-36, when ever that truck was parked out front you could always find me there driving it. Now those old Fords had a two part ignition system, a keyed lock that locked the steering and a toggle switch that would put juice to the coil and with a push button starter switch on the dash. Seems like one day Gene came home and parked the truck out front, a little bit later they heard this noise. I had watched long enough to know to flip the toggle switch and then hit the push button. being left in low gear, the engine started, the truck went forward till the bumper came in contact with a tree. I was found happily standing on the seat driving the truck with the back tires digging holes in the yard. In those days an incident like this was just another family story, no big deal, just another Helle boy growing up. Not too many years later Uncle Gene had a 1940 black Ford pickup with Helle Lumber Company, Oregon IL painted on its doors. Now that is a separate tale all by its self."

Lorraine: "Uncle Gene and Aunt Maxine took me with their family on a vacation to Minnesota. We went out in a boat in the middle of a lake. Now I do believe Uncle Gene took his fishing seriously. But the further out we went the more frightened I became. I was so scared and I think I was crying. Uncle Gene took me all the way back in to the dock and stayed with me. He never made me feel bad for ruining his fishing vacation."

In 1946, after the war, Gene and Verle Helle, started Helle Hardwoods at Oregon IL. Gail Helle joined Helle Hardwoods from 1946 to 1950. Don Helle, who was operating a sawmill near Princeton, IL, sold it and joined Gene and Verle.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On Friday, September 3, 2004, We lost our Dear Uncle Gene when he didn't survive a hip replacement surgery. He was a very dear and special man and his loss will be felt by everyone who knew and loved him. In his memory, I am copying a few E-mails sent following his death. [Sharon]

from Bradley: "Tonite, with the heaviest of heart, I will try to thank all of you that knew and loved my Dad. Barry said he was sorry I had to be the one to take care of him and go thru this. I told him it was an honor. I know of no father and son that have ever been closer than Dad and I. Lots of things I would like to say now how lucky and proud I have been to have this very special man of among men as my Dad. Thank you all and God Bless" - Brad, "He loved us all"

"Uncle Gene was the last one of our Great uncles & Aunts to pass & will be sorely missed. I recall when we returned from Hawaii in May. One of the first people I called was Uncle Gene. We had such a nice chat. He told me about the place he & Maxine & Mom & Dad used to go dancing & About the mill & different points of interest including cutting the wood for Charles Lindbergh's grave, which is a point of interest over there & is very beautiful. I enjoyed listening as much as he enjoyed talking. I recall all the wonderful visits we would get from Uncles Verle & Gene... always full of stories about the family & usually a few about Mom. That generation was the most kind and loving bunch of Aunts & Uncles any niece could ask for & will be missed & forever in our hearts & Memories" [Crystal]

"Uncle Gene was my hero when I was a little girl. He was our anchor when Dad was gone, sending grass skirts and writing to us made us feel so special. I adored the times I visited with him and his family in Hawaii. The room always lit up when he smiled. He was such a good dad to his kids. I know how much he loved each and every one of them. I always felt he had a special place in his heart for Gail's girls too. As I heard in a song the other day, they are only a breath away and one heart beat away!" [Marigail]

"I was going to send this note to Brad, Patti, Chris, Barry and George, but then I realized, the rest of you probably feel the loss as though you were his children, too. I know I do. There are no words within the confines of the English language to touch the depths of your sorrow. But, we can pray that he will have a welcoming Committee unlike any other.
I will share one story which I believe tells you all you need to know about this special man and what family meant to him.
It was 1957 when Lyle was killed. We had gathered at Uncle Sheldon's when Walt brought the minister in who was to do the service. As he was introduced, Walt said to Uncle Gene,
'You remember Reverend Kimble". Gene said, "I sure do. He helped us raise Lyle." I believe, though Lyle may have been a favorite, Gene felt that strongly about all his nieces and nephews. Many is the Saturday night Dave and Lyle and I piled into his kitchen and spent the night sleeping on the sofa. And never once did we not feel welcome at any of our Uncle's homes. We shall miss that generation. And we treasure the memories." [MO]

"I think I have to add another memory. When aunt Maxine died, both families were running back and forth as best we could. I got to the visitation but not the funeral as I was with Mom at the hospital. Aunt Maxine passed on I think July 11th. Mom passed on July 15th. On the day of Mom's funeral I opened dad's door and there stood that marvelous man, Uncle Gene. I fell apart. Such a massive loving heart that man had. I don't know where he got the courage or strength to come, but his kids that could came too. And when Tanner my grandson passed, one of the first ones here was Christine. What a legacy he left his children and they have carried it on. I was there when the call came from Brad. Their hearts are breaking but they are bonded. They were given a wonderful gift in having Gene for their father." [Lorraine]

"I always felt that Uncle Gene had a special place in his heart for Gail's son too. I'm just devastated. I know we all are. I know he had a special place in his heart for each and every one of us. Words cannot describe how this man touched me. There was something so genuine about Uncle Gene. Nothing phony about him. And if you felt like he had a special place in his heart for you, it's because he really did. I remember how he started crying the last time I saw him (last year's reunion). He made you feel like the most important person in his life. His love knew no boundaries. His heart was that big. He had so much love to go around. We were so blessed to have him in our lives. Those big blue eyes of his; I idolized Uncle Gene. He made this crazy world a little bit gentler, a little bit easier to deal with, and a whole lot more fun. The man loved to have fun, didn't he He taught me many life lessons (as did my Dad) and that was perhaps the biggest one - to grasp any opportunity to enjoy some harmless fun. And not to hurt anyone along the way. Such a kind and wonderful man. The world will never see another like him." [Bobby]

"Uncle Gene was always there, even when we couldn't remember it. He was there when Marigail was born. He went to the hospital with Mom and Dad during a terrible storm. He was there when I was born. He also went to the Hospital with Mom and Dad when I was born. Another terrible snow storm. Dad, Gene and Verle where always at each other's homes. I claimed Uncle Gene as my own from the time I could remember. I adored him. He was so handsome. And he would carry me around and let me sit on his lap as long as I wanted to. So Brad, I think you had wonderful parents. I can't imagine them not being part of my life. I can't imagine all those wonderful aunts and uncles not being in my life." [Linda]

"I remember when my dad died, Uncle Gene and Aunt Maxine would call me from Hawaii and gave me so much comfort with their words. They finally came home for good and came and stayed with me for a few days. Gene and I would get up in the morning and go sit out on the front porch and drink coffee and talk and talk. He told me his problems and I told him mine. He was really there for me when dad died. Like no one else. I will treasure his love forever. I am so glad that he and Brad spent the night with me last December. I loved him so much. I am deeply saddened." [Beaner]

"I am so sorry to hear about Uncle Gene. You are absolutely correct that he was the last of the greatest Generation. That makes our generation the old folks now.... I know that to have known these great people was an honor and a privilege. There may never be the likes of them again. As I think of the loss of Gene, the last to go, my heart aches for each and every one we lost and will never see again in this lifetime. So the memories of 13 rises to the surface and my heart breaks." [Carol]

"I think how fortunate you five were to have Gene and Maxine for your parents. I think all of Uncle Gene's nieces and nephews loved him greatly, and he made each of us think that we were his special friend. Although I haven't seen him for years, my memories of him are still so vivid. Also, I can see him just as he looked the last time I saw him--with that great smile, loving eyes, and the most caring spirit that anyone ever had. " [Leila]

"When Bill and I got married, Uncle Gene and Aunt Maxine gave us two Revere ware sauce pans that I have used every week for 43 years and greatly appreciated as we didn't have "matching sets" like today. But it was the secret envelope that Uncle Gene slipped Bill that made our honeymoon special. By today's standards an extra $25.00 dollars may not seem extraordinary but when you are setting out on a trip in 1961 to a fishing cottage in Wisconsin with barely enough to get there and back it was a windfall that made it possible for us to have a fine dinner in the hotel where we spent our wedding night and a little cushion for emergencies. Every year when we go out to dinner on our Anniversary, I remember Uncle Gene's thoughtfulness. I will be "returning" the favor and hope it will help with the expenses a bit. Love you all so much and will miss his twinkle and sunny disposition." [Adajune]

ODE TO UNCLE GENE

The old man said, If I had 10 sons,
You'd never see me lift a finger to one
True to his word, 10 sons he had,
And one never saw him without a young lad.
13 children, his final donation,
And they became known as The Great Generation.
When many young fellows went out to play,
These children worked in the mill every day.
They followed a father, whose love was their gauge,
And each grew as a man at a very young age.
For the sawmill dollar, they learned to toil,
And they often burned the midnight oil.
Then came a day for the youngest three,
That day which lived in infamy
Set aside their dreams, to go and fight
For freedom and what they knew was right.
Today, we gather for life's celebration
To say goodbye to that great generation.
For a Father, Uncle and lifelong friend,
An American Hero, a man among men.
When a youngster they once had a horse at the farm
Gene was thrown, far from home and the fall broke his arm
Though hurting, and broken, and just a mere lad,
He picked up the saddle with the good arm he had.
And he carried it on his back, all the way home.
And the horse, I guess he left standing alone.
He drove his first load of lumber, we're told,
At the ripe old age of thirteen years old.
He returned from the Seabees at the end of the war,
With a smile and a Plymouth and girlfriends galore.
One of those girlfriends just wasn't content,
And a new Mrs. Helle became permanent.
And the joy and love that they gave to each other,
Was spread to each cousin, friend, sister and brother.
But you all know the story and that's why we're here.
Because we are family and this quite clear.
We each have a memory to share and recall,
This last of the Great Ones we loved one and all.
The strongest, we knew would be last to depart,
And we bid our farewell with the heaviest heart.
We're all here to morn, but it's a celebration.
As we say Goodbye to the last of that Great Generation.
[by Mo Helle]


Gene's Funeral by his Nephew Dwight Helle:
"He would have been proud. All of his kids, grandkids, mother-in-law, the flag, taps. It was a right sunny day and to borrow a phrase from Tom T. "You couldn't get a tear in edgewise" when the old commander handed the flag to Brad and thanked him from a grateful nation.
Present were about 25 of his nephews and nieces. That is on the Helle side. I don't know how many on Maxine's side. The clan got a chance to meet and greet Brad's new wife and George's fiance. Ken Roy's son, Don was there. I bring that up because he was the sailor in his generation, as was Gene and I in ours. I have been informed that his brother Jeff was a Seabee. Joann snuck in a few bars of Anchors Aweigh on the organ. Verle sang and told a few stories. Dave drew from his well of stories and shared enough to get a good laugh from the crowd. Some of us remember that it was his dad's funeral that we first heard laughter during the service. ( It was Davy and the famous whisker rub story).
Afterward we crowded about 70 people into the basement of a little country church and enjoyed enough food to carry the 7th fleet on two weeks of maneuvers. Word went out that Vernon had had a heart attack last nite. Since returning home I find that they got in there and put a stent in and no damage was found. He is to come home tomorrow.
Everyone one of his brothers was represented by a family member, save for Walt. What with Vernon's heart and Janice's problems, that is understandable."

'A great sendoff for the Great Generation. Wish I could have been there. See you all in a couple of weeks. Some bunch of cousins we got. God Bless you all." Mo

"Yes I Too wish I could have been there. It was a tough day at work & I went & bought a dozen red ,white & Blue balloons for my store. Of course I was the only one except for a few of my associates who knew their significance. I was there in mind, spirit & prayers. Love you all & see you at the reunion.
Love Cousin Crystal
   17 M    xi. Gail Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 23 Jun 1920 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 10 Jun 1982 in Peoria, IL at age 61, and was buried on 14 Jun 1982 in Ottawa IL, St. Columbia Cemetery.
 

                  Gail & Bernice Helle

Gail married Mary "Bernice" Barler on 18 Jul 1939 in Burlington, Iowa. Mary was born on 18 Jun 1921 in Wyoming, IL.
General Notes:
GAIL HELLE envisioned his parents at the time of his birth saying: "George looked at Mom and said, "Mom, we have reached perfection, no more boys". Mom looked at me and said, "Pop, (she always called him Pop) please, no more boys! They get worse with each one and, my God, look what we got here" That is why they never had any more boys. They got a couple of girls after that "cause Mom wanted some dishwashers, but I think we boys did our share of dishes anyway. When I was in the seventh grade I found the cutest little dark eyed, dark-haired girl I ever saw. She was in the sixth grade. I fell madly in love right then and that was the beginning of the greatest romance of all-time. All I could do was give sickening lovesick looks; I did not dare speak to her. When I was a sophomore in high school and she a freshman I finally asked her for a date and she said yes! My dreams came true and we never looked any further. By combining our high and low notes we have made a beautiful song. Our rewards have been many, the greatest being three beautiful daughters, a great son and sons-in-law, a lovely daughter-in-law and beautiful healthy grandchildren, friends galore; so what man could ask for more Our cup runneth over. The good Lord has blessed my whole life with good parents, brothers and sisters. My in-laws have been dear and treasured friends. Through my own dear family I'm blessed and I thank the Lord every day for the many blessings He has sent my way."

Excerpt from "Memories of my Life," by Walter Helle: "As I grew older, I discovered that us children were sent off fishing so we would be out of the house while a new baby was being born. My brother Verle and I were the skinny ones in the family, and when he was three we were sent down to Grandma's on June 22, 1920. We were told to stay there and eat mulberries to fatten us up. Our older brother, Lloyd, came after us on June 23 and when we returned home, sure enough, we had another brother born who was named Gail. Mom had run out of boys names by now, and Gail was the last boy born into our family."

Charlotte wrote about her brother:
Gail, who was 18 months older than I and I were very close. We went to high school together. Gail was always gentle and loving.

Gail grew to manhood in Wyoming Illinois, where he assisted his father in the hardwood lumber business. He graduated from Wyoming High School in1938 and in 1939 he married his high school sweetheart, after her graduation. They became the parents of two daughters before he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1944. He served in the States until his discharge in Nov. 1945. He reentered the family lumber business at Oregon, IL, later Savanna, IL and was at Monticello, Iowa when he passed away in 1982. During the years 1950-1965 he was employed by Midwest Transfer of Chicago, IL. His happiest years in his work were probably as manager of the Monticello Wood Products, 1971-1977 and his own company, Tri-State Pallet 1977-1979 at Monticello with his wife and son. In the 1970's Gail enjoyed "Scouting" when his son was in Boy Scouts.

Gail was very family oriented and delighted in his children and grandchildren. As a child, Gail attended Sinnett Chapel N.W. of Cuba, IL and later the Congregational Church of Wyoming, Illinois. In his last days he expressed a desire to become of the Catholic religion, the religion of his grandparents, wife and children. His wife writes that Gail thought all of their children were to be girls and he loved each and every one of his daughters deeply. However, when his son arrived ten years after the last daughter, he must have been quite moved. Besides always enjoying his work in the lumber and pallet business, the evenings Gail spent with his brothers and families the last five months of his life were memorable to him.
   18 F    xii. Charlotte Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 20 Dec 1921 in Cuba/Wyoming, Illinois, died on 2 Jun 1988 of Savanna, Carroll Co., IL (Died In Hospital In Clinton, IA) at age 66, and was buried on 4 Jun 1988 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.

Charlotte Helle
Charlotte married Harrison Elroy Osborn Jr., son of Harrison Elroy Osborn Sr. and Retta Harriet Ryan, on 10 Jun 1938 in Donnelson, Iowa. Harrison was born on 8 Dec 1916 in Castleton/Modena, IL, died on 11 Oct 2003 in Capac, Michigan at age 86, and was buried in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.
General Notes:
Excerpts from Charlotte's story from "As Remember my Life": "I was named Miss Chicago by my older brothers, because I had a fiery temper, but I think I had to have so I wouldn't get lost in the shuffle. With ten older brothers, I think I nearly did anyway. I really was blessed. I grew up with my first years on a farm, the 12th child of George and Ida Kaler Helle. Above me were ten brothers and one sister. Tagging along the 13th was my sister June. We all write some. Many of us dabble in poetry. There's lots of music in the family. I remember my childhood on the farm. Thirteen of us kids, Mom and Pop and my maternal grandmother. Pop was German. Probably one of the most loving pops in the world. Thirteen of us, and he never spanked a one of us. Mom and Pop must have had cast iron nerves. We had a long dining room table. It had to be to seat 15 of us. My younger sister and four or five brothers and I used to play bear around the table. We chased around that table, whooping and hollering. It was a noisy game, but usually it tired us out to where we went right to sleep at bedtime. We always had a parlor. In this parlor was a piano. Winter nights, Mom played the piano, Pop the fiddle, most of us sang. My older brothers played their musical instruments. Delbert played the violin, Royle about any instrument.. Don played the fiddle. Walter played an accordion. Verle played the violin. Gail played a horn in the high school band. Very memorable childhoods, eating eggs by the dozens at Easter; homemade root beer; Pop trading lumber for sorghum; homemade clothes; hair put up on rags for curlers; going barefoot on the farm; milking cows; Dad on the threshing runs; big meals put on by women for the thresher crews; homemade ice- cream; listening to Joe Lewis prize fights on the car radio's with our brothers and friends; charivari when Don got married; the friends we made as we grew up and when we were in high school. Yes it has been a grand life and a great family."

Charlotte and Harrison knew how have fun and enjoy life. They sang all the time, and they loved to dance. Some of their songs were funny, and I think these are what their children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews enjoyed the most. Shawn recalls a memory: "What I remember most fondly is when they sang "Dreaming tonight of my Blue Eyes." Grandma Charlotte's part was to cry, in a comical way that had us all rolling on the floor."

Walter Helle wrote - "During one night in December 1921, a little sister was born. She was a pretty girl with beautiful dark hair and dark eyes whom we all loved from the start. She was a real treat after so many boys. We always called her Toots, but her real name was Charlotte. My mother was so proud of her two little girls. As they grew up she would play and sing with them. To this day, when I hear "Jingle Bells", a lump rises in my throat and I can see and hear Mother and those sweet little girls singing so happily."

Ethel Helle wrote: "Growing up without the girl playmates, I learned to enjoy the peace and quiet of the country. I would entertain myself with sewing, not needing a lot of people around all the time. Charlotte, on the other hand, is quite the socialite. She usually has a house full of people and goes visiting a lot. Even though we do not look alike, nor like the same things, we have a bond that sisters have, that is very special."

Shawn: "My fondest memories are of my grandmother Charlotte. I have always credited my humor and love of life to being to being her grandson. I always felt such a close bond with her. Something she once told me has always stuck with me and been a primary philosophy in raising my children "You make each and every one feel as if he is your favorite and make each one feel special". I think that says a lot about her and the kind of woman she was."

MEMORIES
by Carol
What I remember most about Mom and Dad is that everyone was welcome at their house. You did not need to call ahead, just dropping in was good. They were always glad to see you and you would always get a meal. I remember when Mom fried chicken, and she knew how to fry chicken. Sheldon stopped by, Well of course Sheldon ate chicken till he could eat no more He went home and Hazel had baked chicken. He did not dare tell her he had eaten Mom's fired chicken, so he sat and ate. Of course he was having a hard time eating that baked chicken and Hazel knew someting was up Within a few days Mom asked Hazel if Sheldon had told her he had stopped by and had fried chicken with them. At any rate, Hazel was mad at Sheldon for a long time over that one.

Mom and Dad had saved just enough money to buy building material to build their new house. So of course contractors were out. It was built by their grandsons. All teenagers at the time. This was overseen and supervised by Andy and of course he helped, but for the most part the grandchildren built the house over the course of a summer. This is a testament to how much the grandsons loved them and how much they loved thier grandkids. They are still missed today.

MEMORIES
by Sharon

What I recall vividly is our home in DeWitt, Iowa. Mom had a baby grand piano in the living room. She had a beautiful soprano voice and played the piano. Dad had a great tenor voice. They sang and played all the time. Mom could hit the high notes with crystal clarity. All of my sister Carol's friends loved Mom and Dad. One time a couple of boys went out drinking and came to our home late at night. Mom and Dad got out of bed, fed them black coffee until they were sober, then had them sing hymns at the piano with them in the middle of the night. I wouldn't be surprised if Mom and Dad had a lasting affect on many teenagers in DeWitt, Iowa.

One thing that made Mom so very special was her philosophies on life. She would never argue with anyone. She said if it wasn't going to matter a year from now, it wasn't worth arguing about. She saw the good in everyone she met. She had no enemies and loved everyone. She had a great sense of humor and really enjoyed life. In her younger days, before the arthritis crippled her, she loved dancing. She and Dad would dance and dance. She never said no to a grandchild. They all adored her and would do anything for her.

MEMORIES
by Crystal

Growing up with our parents was always a lot of fun they sang all the time & Mother played the piano & Dad the mouth harp, They where a fun loving couple. We took many trips & love was abundant. Mom & Dad were always full of fun. They sang & joked & raised us kids with a sense of humor and appreciation for each other. They were kind & loving parents. We were so very fortunate."

My Mother made each of us kids feel special & she was a dear sweet lady everyone loved, Mom lost her best friend & Sister June & at an early age, I know she always missed her & would tell us stories of growing up in a large family.
   19 F    xiii. Nellie "June" Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 2 Jun 1924 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 25 Aug 1932 in Wyoming, IL at age 8, and was buried in Aug 1932 in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Fulton Co. IL.

June Helle
Charlotte Helle: "June was just he opposite of me. She and Ethel looked more like our Pop I guess. June was blonde, with hazel eyes. Ethel was fair with blue eyes. When I was ten and June was eight she already weighed about two pounds more than me. June was witty, where I had torely on my temper or stubbornness. June was sweet, loveable and cuddly, 2and a half years younger than I, she made friends easier. I used to envy her. Grandma had a fatty tumor on the nape of her neck. Cold winter nights, June and I, who slept with Grandma, used to take turns warming it with our hands. I was a daydreamer. After we left the farm and moved to town, we walked to school. I walked along daydreaming and walked across just ahead of a train coming. June, always alert, waited for the train. After that Mom used to tell June, "Take care of Charlotte, so she doesn't get run over". Needless to say, that went over big. June was in second grade and I was in fifth.
On Valentines Day, I got a normal amount of valentines, but by this time two little boys were in love with June. One named Tommy, one named Melvin. After school, in our doorway we found two valentines to June from Melvin, then an hour later 2 from Tommy. The next day, 3 from Melvin and a little later 3 from Tommy. This went on for about three days. Finally, Melvin brought a whole shoebox filled with valentines and deposited at our door, "To June from Melvin." That ended the war. I don't know as either one of the boys ever declared their love verbally. One sad fall, when June was eight and I was ten, we came down with sore throats and high temperatures. Mom called the nice doctor in our small town of Wyoming, Illinois. The doctor came every day. We lay sharing a bed, with our devoted mother taking care of us. Several times she asked the doctor, "Are you sure it isn't diphtheria" The doctor always reassured her. Finally, one day, we felt better. Maybe, I'm the one who felt better, but we'd been down so long. We got up and played with our dolls and little dishes. June finally said, "I'm tired, I'm going back to bed." I was frustrated, but she went to bed anyway. She never ever got up again. The next day she went to the hospital and as near as I can remember, as I was only ten years old, she only lived one day. Those two little boys who had sent her the valentines would come as far as the yard, but they didn't come to see their little friend laid out in the parlor in her pink chiffon dress. Her illness had been diphtheria.

Walter Helle: "In the spring of 1924, when I was nearly twelve years old, I overheard a conversation between my mother and my older brother, Lloyd. From what I heard, I knew we were going to have another baby. On June 4, 1924, little June was born. She was blond and so sweet that we all learned to love her as we did little Tootsie. She was the last baby born into the Helle family, thirteen in all. We were a close knit, happy family and my mother was so proud of her two little girls. As they grew up she would play and sing with them. To this day, when I hear "Jingle Bells", a lump rises in my throat and I can see and hear Mother and those sweet little girls singing so happily."

Lee Helle: "Aunt June died before I was born. As a small boy the only memory of her that I have is when her name would be mentioned, a sadness would sweep across the faces of everyone there. I didn't understand death but the sadness I could feel."

4. Brighetta Bertha "Bert" Helle was born on 22 Nov 1878 in Rural Smithfield, IL, died on 26 Nov 1951 in Canton, Illinois73, and was buried in Nov 1951 in Greenwood Cemetery, Canton, Illinois.
General Notes: When Ida Kaler Helle was interviewed by a news reporter on her 90th birthday, She told of her friendship with Bertha Helle. "My best friend was Bertha Helle. We both had many male admirers and eventually we became known as "The Buckeye Beauties" The name Buckeye came from the community in which they were reared. Ida married Bert's brother, George Adam Helle.

Bert and Charlie were the parents of 5 sons and 1 daughter.
Brighetta married Charles Henry Bolon Mayflower Desc., son of Benjamin Franklin Pierce "Frank" Bolon Mayflower Desc. and Sarah "Malissa" Lasswell, on 4 Apr 1897 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., IL. Charles was born on 8 Feb 1875 in Deerfield Twp., Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 7 Jan 1929 in Canton, Canton Twp., Fulton Co., Illinois at age 53, and was buried on 9 Jan 1929 in Greenwood Cemetery, Canton, Illinois.
Noted events in his life were:
" Resided: 1880. Living with parents
" Resided: 1900, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., Illinois. Living on parents farm
" Census: Farmer, 1910, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., Illinois. Bolon, Charles H. Head age 35 (md.1) 13yrs IL IL IL Farmer
Bolon, Bertha B. Wife age 31 6children IL Germany Germany
Bolon, Glydas D. Daughter age 12 IL IL IL
Bolon, Russell E. Son age 10 IL IL IL
Bolon, Leta M. Daughter age 9 IL IL IL
Bolon, Lucien M. Son age 6 IL IL IL
Bolon, Harry C. Son age 4 IL IL IL
Bolon, Howard B.Son age 2 IL IL IL
" Resided: 1920, Deerfield, Fulton Co., Illinois. Farmer

The child from this marriage was:
+ 20 M    i. Howard Berlin Bolon Mayflower Desc. was born on 22 Mar 1908 in Smithfield, Cass Twp, Fulton Co, IL, died on 28 Feb 1972 in Canton, Illinois at age 63, and was buried in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.

5. Franciska Elisabeth "Lizzie" Helle was born on 21 Aug 1861 in Macomb, Illinois, died on 1 May 1943 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 81, and was buried in May 1943 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
General Notes: Lizzie was the first child of Frederick and Katharine, and had to assume responsibility at a tender age. One such task resulted in a near tragedy and left her scarred for life. When the family resided in Louisville, KY, she was instructed to keep the fire burning. The fire died down and having seen her parents use kerosene on wood to start a fire, she proceeded to pour kerosene on the smoldering coals. Leaping flames set her dress on fire causing 2nd and 3rd degree burns on the front and right side of her body. Lizzie and John were married in December 1884 and set up housekeeping in a one-room cabin on John's 160 acre farm which adjoined the Helle Homestead on its eastern border. Lizzie had to carry the water for all household needs of her family from a spring across Laswell Branch and another creek which traversed the bottom.
Research Notes: SOURCE: Helle Ancestry statistics are excerpts from the Frederick Helle and Katherine Krauser genealogy which consists of nearly 300 pages of research, letters, photographs, and documented facts.
Franciska married John Wesley Orwig, son of Abraham (Abram) Orwig and Olive Eliza Curfman, on 6 Dec 1884 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois. John was born on 23 Dec 1859 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 11 Mar 1936 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 76, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

Children from this marriage were:
   21 F    i. Infant Daughter Orwig was born on 28 Jun 1885 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 28 Jun 1885 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.

+ 22 M    ii. John Abraham "Wig" Orwig "Johnny" was born on 9 Mar 1887 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 27 Feb 1966 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 78, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

+ 23 F    iii. Catherine Olive "Katie" Orwig was born on 9 Sep 1888 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 14 Jul 1982 in Galesburg, Illinois at age 93, and was buried in Jul 1982 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

+ 24 F    iv. Dena Elizabeth Orwig was born on 9 Dec 1889 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 20 Dec 1971 in Abington, Illinois at age 82.

+ 25 M    v. Charles Frederick "Fred" Orwig was born on 26 Apr 1892 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 27 Feb 1948 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 55, and was buried in Feb 1948 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
   26 M    vi. George Milford Orwig was born on 28 Feb 1894 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 17 Mar 1894 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.

+ 27 M    vii. William Milton "Milt" Orwig was born on 17 Mar 1895 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL, died on 25 Jun 1980 in Canton, Illinois at age 85, and was buried in Jun 1980 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

+ 28 F    viii. Martha Jane Orwig was born on 9 Mar 1897 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 16 Oct 1938 in Peoria, IL at age 41, and was buried in Oct 1938 in Cuba Cemetery, Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.

+ 29 M    ix. Frank Byran Orwig was born on 19 Jul 1898 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 May 1975 in Canton, Illinois at age 76, and was buried in May 1975 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

+ 30 M    x. James Raymond "Jim" Orwig was born on 14 May 1900 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, was christened <24 May 1901>, died on 20 Dec 1960 in Avon, Illinois at age 60, and was buried in Dec 1960 in Memorial Gardens, Macomb, Illinois.

+ 31 M    xi. Henry David Orwig was born on 23 Sep 1903 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 7 Jan 1985 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL at age 81, and was buried in Jan 1985 in Astoria Cemetery, Astoria, Illinois.

 
  Third Generation  


6. Alta Flora Fouts was born on 26 Feb 1899 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, daughter of Robert "Sherman" Fouts and Maria Theresa "Tracy" Helle, died on 13 Sep 1974 in Macomb, Illinois at age 75, and was buried in Sep 1974 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.
General Notes: Memories: A granddaughters tribute: "My fondest childhood memories are of my grandparents, Royle and Alta Helle. My grandmother taught me to love and appreciate the fruits of hard labor. I remember how hard she worked in her gardens and flower beds from sunrise to sunset and then canning and freezing in the evenings. When she would finish, she would sit in her favorite rocking chair and record the day's events in a diary. She knew some day her great -grandchildren would want to know more about her.

Alta helped her father with fencing projects, animals and crops and her mother with gardening and homemaking projects. She drove the family carat the age of thirteen since her parents did not want to drive. The car salesman thought someone ought to be taught something about the vehicle before he turned it over to the family. Alta's father did learn to drive it later on, but, generally, she was the driver. She was quite proud of the fact that she never struck another vehicle. She drove a car until a stroke in June of 1974 left her paralyzed until her death in September of that year. Alta kept a detailed diary of all farming activities, weather conditions, farm and home improvements, facts on cattle pedigrees, hatching of turkeys and chickens and goings on of friends and family. She had a reputation as an excellent marksman in gun shooting contests. She could and did shoot squirrels and rabbits for food in early years. She played horseshoes with her father. With her mother as a teacher she knitted, crocheted, tatted, embroidered and sewed everything from underwear to dress coats. In her lifetime she quilted approximately 50 quilts; baby quilts to regular size bed quilts. She could use a hammer and saw as well as most men. Her husband would boast that she could guess the weight of a hog as accurately as most men; but at the same time, she could bring a smile to the tiniest child as she poked a spoonful of cereal down the child's throat. Alta's saddest times in her life were at the time of her parents' deaths in 1928 and twenty years later in February of 1948 when her third daughter, Joyce, died. As she ruefully confided to her remaining family, "The Gods Were Angry With Me For Being So Happy," and she was happy with her five children and husband. Her first child was born when she was thirty - one years of age. It took adjusting on her part to take care of five children after being raised as an only child. Although she was denied the opportunity to attend high school or college due to her remote rural location and her parents' health and needs, she was very interested in education. She took correspondence courses, read everything she could get her hands on and, thus, taught herself. Her proudest moments were when her children graduated from high school. Later years brought college graduation for her daughters and a daughter-in-law; and college attendance for both of her sons. Alta corresponded with relatives and friends from all over the world; including the Krauser and Helle cousins in Germany. She worked faithfully as a school board member at Mt. Pleasant. She was a member of the Lutheran Church at Zion and later at Wiley Lutheran Church. She also attended many activities at the Checkrow Community Church and Bushnell Methodist Church. She was an active member of the 4-B Sewing Club for many years.
Alta married Royle George Helle Mayflower Desc., son of George Adam Helle and Ida Lodema Kaler Mayflower Desc., on 3 Aug 1929 in Kahoka, MO. Royle was born on 23 Feb 1904 in Smithfield, Illinois, died on 30 Sep 1979 in Canton, Illinois at age 75, and was buried in Oct 1979 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

Children from this marriage were:
+ 32 F    i. Ava Janene Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 9 Apr 1930 in Fulton County, IL and died on 7 Jan 1994 in Fullton County, Illinois at age 63.
   33 F    ii. Lodema "Joyce" Helle Mayflower Descendant was born on 22 Oct 1934 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 21 Feb 1948 in Bushnell, McDonough, IL at age 13, and was buried in Feb 1948 in Ellisville, Illinois, Wiley Lutheran Cemetery. (see above memories)

7. Lloyd Charles Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 10 Jan 1903 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 17 Feb 1984 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 81, and was buried in Feb 1984 in Smithfield Cemetery, Cuba, Illinois.
General Notes: Lee Helle wrote: " Uncle Lloyd, I'm sure that most have heard the story of road grader and pickup truck, has anyone heard about the two boys that snuck out of the house one night with Lloyd's double barrel These boys by the way had the good intentions of killing an owl that was thinning out the flock of chickens. I don't think we hit the owl but believe you me that 12 gauge woke up the household."

From the book, "Frederick Helle & Katharine Krauser" by Alice I Riley, published in 1985: "Lloyd was the oldest son of George and Ida (Kaler) Helle. He was the second father (or mother, if necessary) to the other children through out his life under his parent's roof. When twenty-five years of age he met a girl "with a big smile and dark eyes, "Opal Maxine Behymer", and made her his wife. Lloyd was a farmer for forty years, road commissioner for thirty years prior to 1976 and worked at the Truax Coal Company for twenty-five years, retiring in 1968."

From the book, "As I remember my Family", published by Sheldon Helle in 1990: excerpts written by Sheldon: "Lloyd, like most boys back then, worked when there was work to be done, which was most of the time. Most of the work then was farm work, wood cutting, and sawmilling. On Sunday afternoons the neighborhood boys would gather at one farm or another to talk, play ball, tell stories or lift iron weights to see who was the strongest. Lloyd was the champion."

From the book "Memories of a Country Girl" by Ethel Helle Walton, published in 1981, quotes from Chapter 20, My Oldest Brother, Lloyd: "All of my brothers have mechanical ability, more some than others, none more highly regarded than that of Lloyd. Lloyd began firing steam engines at the age of eight. ....... Lloyd being the oldest, always felt responsible for us, even after he left home. Mom had quite a way of handling us. When she went places she simply gave an older child the responsibility of the younger one. As they were getting ready to leave once, Lloyd said he thought they ought to stay home. He was afraid she would lose one of us. We had a fence around the yard when we had little ones. Lloyd was leaving for work one morning and almost backed his car over Gene. The gate needed to be fixed and Gene had got out. It was repaired before Lloyd went on to work that morning."

Memories of Lloyd by Brother Gail Helle:
"Lloyd had to put up with us as little brothers and sisters. There was a special place in my heart for him; quiet, unassuming, always gentle, kind, never cross. What a thrill it was when Lloyd brought home our first new sister-in-law. My first suit of clothes were given to me by Opal. She bought me a handful of commies; poor boy marbles made of clay and painted all colors. I always looked forward to Lloyd coming to Wyoming on Sundays for he would give me a dollar to wash his car. I thought that was dumb because he knew I would have done it for nothing."
Lloyd married Opal Maxine Behymer, daughter of Lewis Behymer and Daisy Chambers, on 12 Sep 1928 in Gladstone, Illinois. Opal was born on 17 Aug 1909 in Fulton County, IL, died on 17 Feb 1981 in Avon, Illinois at age 71, and was buried in Feb 1981 in Smithfield Cemetery, Cuba, Illinois.


Lloyd and Opal Helle

The child from this marriage was:
   34 M    i. Richard Lloyd Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 15 Dec 1930 in Fulton County, IL and died on 1 Jan 1933 in Fulton County, IL at age 2.

10. Delbert Vernon Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 24 Mar 1907 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 Aug 1990 in Farmington, Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Aug 1990 in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Farmington, IL.
General Notes: Delbert Vernon Helle
by Dwight Helle

Being born into a family of macho dudes that rated the internal combustion engine slightly above the Sistine Chapel must have been a real challenge for a musician. So Delbert learned early on to walk both sides of the road.

His brothers for years talked about how he made the first crystal radio when he was a little boy. Mind you he was born in 07, so this was pre-vaudeville. It is a pure testament to his love of music that he developed his extraordinary skills with the violin in the shadow of his older brother Royal, without a trace of jealousy. Royal was born with a gift, of that there is no doubt. The two of them teamed up to play the barn dances with some kids from the next generation.

Delbert knew that starving musicians was practically a prerequisite to success and the good Lord had blessed him and Nellie with eight children. So he turned his attention to that engineering skill and started reading. As was the norm in the depression years, he had to drop out of school at the 9th grade so he taught himself about physics and engineering. All the while honing his skills in the wood products industry. To this day, anyone who knew "DV" as he liked to be called, will testify that the man had his nose in a book, or a magazine, or a newspaper most of the time. It could be observed that his impaired hearing was a factor. Those of us who knew him best would modify that to "impaired listening" as he was not one for idle chatter and didn't suffer fools lightly.

Our greatest "knee-slapper" was when his brother Lloyd would come over to visit. Nellie and Opal would gather in the kitchen and just chat up a storm. Not only were they best of friends, but they were both hungry for some adult company that they could talk with. Lloyd and Delbert would gather in the living room and read newspapers and magazines. In later years they would watch a little TV if the fights were on. When it came time to leave Lloyd would bark out "Woman, get yer kids around!" Probably the only thing he said all nite, but the two of them really enjoyed each other as much as the women.

When Delbert passed away in 1990, it was observed that he was the only man anyone remembered who didn't have an enemy on earth. (Well, maybe that statement could also apply to his brother-in-law Harrison, a friend to all who knew him.) No one ever derided him, insulted him or argued with him. How many of us can say that He had no detractors, as everyone respected this gentle man who could grow orchids, repair violins, owned two patents, raised 8 kids, and probably took more knowledge of nature in general and wood in particular to his grave than exists in university libraries.

Sawmill Hydraulics, Inc.
by Dwight Helle

In 1941 Delbert and Nellie moved their little family to a big frame house on the highway East of Farmington, Illinois. Nellie
s father, Fred Hayes, a widower lived with them and he had inherited some money from his late uncle John Jackson of Nashville, TN. It was this inheritance that bought the house and farm. Fred helped Nellie and Delbert to raise their 6 kids who would soon be joined by 2 more. He ran the farm and Delbert put up a sawmill as the Helle boys had all been saw millers.

In the late 50
s and early 60
s Delbert had developed a machine for the wood products industry called a log turner. It was originally designed for his own use, but word of it spread as Delbert traveled the country hammering saws and carrying the message. His business card read "Have Anvil, Will Travel." He was building as many as 30 of these per month and this was the catalyst to developing Sawmill Hydraulics, Inc. In 1963 the last of five fires spelled the death knell of DV Helle Lumber Company and Sawmill Hydraulics, Inc. was formed. Delbert's oldest son, Gordon, ran the business until 1976 when Verle and Dwight and third party named Tom Staggs took over the reins. In the late 90
s the third generation, Dwight
s sons Doug and Chris came on board. Over the years, several family members have been involved in the business is different ways. Son Maurie developed a lot of the promotional material. Lawrence worked for a while in installations and trouble shooting. Joann worked in the office for a period of time. Several of Verle
s family have been involved in clerical and production work.

Delbert developed other machines for the wood products industry and patented something called a setworks. This system of producing accurate lumber was utilized to produce sawmill carriages for almost 40 years. In the late 90
s the third generation came along and developed a computerized replacement, that like it
s predecessor, became the standard in the industry.

As of this writing the company has developed a revolutionary machine for the industry that marries the computer to a radical concept of sawing the log in two passes instead of four. The company keeps on the cutting edge of sawmill technology by listening to the customers, who now number close to 1000, and staying abreast of modern technology. By this means we have kept 20 families supported and provided with medical insurance and a retirement plan. It has been a privilege and an honor to carry on DV
s legacy.

---------------------------------------------

Lee Helle: "Uncle Delbert was the Inventor of the family. "The hydraulic sawmill" log dogs & turners. Where ever you find a sawmill today it will have Helle equipment in it. But what I most remember about him is the man who would make a nephew feel like he was one of his own family."

Ethel Helle Walton: "Delbert, the one Dad always said had "Tinkoritis", manufactures sawmills and allied machinery. All are his own inventions .He also has many hobbies, including restoring old violins. He is the only one of us who received a musical education."

Sheldon Helle: "As I remember Delbert, when I was a small boy of eight or nine, he was generally putting wires on a piece of plywood. Sometime later, we heard the first radio in our home. In 1924, Delbert had built the first wireless music box (radio) in our area. Delbert's knowledge of electronics was very useful some forty years later when he invented and began manufacturing the "Helle Log Turner and Sawmills. Delbert started Sawmill Hydraulics in Farmington, IL. The Helle sawmill was the first fully automatic portable sawmill in the nation. It used electric controls with hydraulic power. This equipment is in use in all parts of the world, even in countries like Malaysia and.5..5 New Guinea. Delbert and Nellie were in a terrible accident in 1971. Despite the modern hospital, they could not save Nellie's leg. It was amputated above the knee. Delbert died of a heart attack August. 18, 1990."

Gail Helle: "Delbert always had time for me and always made me feel important. All guys have to have an older pal and he was it. I could tell him my tales of woes and he would listen. He must have really loved kids. That must be why the good Lord saw that he had the most. I also remember Delbert tinkering with his homemade radios and his interest in electricity."

Helle Sawmill Hydraulics, http://www.4helle.com/history.html - By 1950 Delbert Helle had built an impressive sawmill operation in Farmington, Illinois. A left hand #5 Corley mill, a dry kiln, a plaining operation, tongue and groove machine, pallet line, molder and joiner. The operation fed him and his wife, eight kids, two grandparents, and a hired hand. As he approached his fifties, he realized that turning logs by hand was detrimental to his health and hard on productivity. So, he went to the major manufactures and asked about a log turner. Well it seemed that the only thing available was a ram device that required a pit for the cylinder. He observed that it would fill up with water and freeze in the winter time. So he built his own Helle Log Turner. Today over 600 of these were operating wherever logs are sawed!

"Frederick Helle and Katherine Krauser" by Alice Riley: "Delbert Vernon Helle, considers 25 January 1932 as the most important day in his life when he married a wonderful girl. During the first ten years of their marriage, Delbert and Nellie moved 13 times; usually in a farm house near the sawmill. Nellie recalls: "We had running water in only two homes before our present home. I have drawn water from a well with a bucket, dipped it from a spring and a few times had a pump at a sink in the house. However, I never had to wash clothes on a washboard. Our most unusual home was a 24 square foot cabin beside the Mississippi River in Jo Daviess County, Illinois in 1935-36. The weather was 35 degrees below zero for the first few days and we had a lot of snow. Our cabin was built above the mark of the previous high- test previous flood and when the spring flood reached its crest, only the three chimney tops were visible. We never went back."
Delbert married Nellie Adalaide Hayes, daughter of Harry Fred Hayes and Ada Lee Jackson, on 25 Jan 1932 in Springfield, Illinois. Nellie was born on 18 Feb 1912 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 2 Apr 1995 in Farmington, Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Farmington, IL.

Delbert and Nellie Helle

Children from this marriage were:
+ 35 M    i. Lawrence James "Dig" Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 23 Aug 1934 in Peoria, IL, died on 19 Oct 2003 at age 69, and was buried on 15 Nov 2003.
 

Lawrence Helle
 
   36 F    ii. Phyllis Fern Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 27 Jul 1941 in Oak Hill, Illinois, died on 18 Aug 1960 in Chicago, Illinois at age 19, and was buried in Aug 1960 in Farmington Cemetery, Farmington, Illinois.
 

Phyllis Helle
 
Tributes:
Nellie Helle: "The death of our parents was to be expected in life, but we did not expect to lose our daughter when she was only 19 years old. We had no control over that, just the heartache."

Sharon: Phyllis was more than just a cousin. We were close, like sisters, spending time every summer together. Just before Phyllis became ill, she had spent a summer with me. The song "Four Walls" had just been released.My Dad was singing "Old Walt" instead of "Four Walls" as his hearing problem prevented him from hearing the words clearly. He went around the house singing "Old Walt to hear me, Old Walt to see me..." and I never saw anyone laugh so hard in my life as Phyllis did. She was a fun cousin, always a happy person. Her death at such a young age was a tragedy for the entire family and I lost a dear friend."

11. Donald Lee Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 30 Sep 1908 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 18 Jul 1961 in Tiskilwa, Illinois at age 52, and was buried in Jul 1961 in Bloom Cemetery, Tiskilwa, Illinois.
 

Don Helle
General Notes: Gail Helle: "Don was a sentimental guy. Don was determined to play the fiddle and his chording on the piano was one of the best. He loved dancing."

Lee Helle: "Dad was one of the best rifle shots in the state, he scorned the use of a rest or telescope sight. With a 22 rifle I have watched him drive nails into wood boards at 20 steps. Once with a pump 25-20 rifle I watched him knock a goose out of the air. At the local carnivals he would be barred from the shooting galleries.
Honest as the day was long, didn't drink or smoke, would give you the shirt off your back if you needed it. He had no use for for any man who abused women or children.
He was a avid fox hunter and we always had from six to a dozen fox hounds. To go out at night and listen to the hounds chasing a fox was one of Dads greatest hobbies.
Dad worked hard all his life as a sawmill man and at times he tried hard to be a farmer. He was killed in a accident way before his time."

Ethel Helle Walton: "Don and I had our own language. If anyone wanted to know what we were saying, I did the interpreting, then we would continue our conversation in our own language."

Sheldon Helle: "I remember the day Don asked me to go fox hunting with him. We loaded up hound dogs in his open car and drove about twenty miles. We let the dogs out for the "Big Chase." We were supposed to see some foxes go by with the dogs right behind them. We stood on a COLD hill all day -never did see a fox or a dog. I was not sure I would survive that day, but somehow, I did. Night time came and the dogs returned. I think it took me three days to thaw out. I never forgot my first and last day fox hunting. Don entered a borrowed Model T Ford coupe in the "Slow Car Race," at the Cuba Home Coming. A five dollar prize would go to the slowest car. The race was one block. Don was great with cars, a real professional mechanic. He retarded the spark, changed the throttle linkage. The race was on. When all the other cars had traveled the block, Don and I were just past the half way mark. It was a great thrill to come in last. Don got the five dollars - Big money for a teenage boy back in the 20's."

Kenneth wrote the following about his father:

"I am going to run my hounds tonight; Them old coyotes will be in for a fight.
I have six hounds that are close and dear; When I hear them run I wish Dad was back here.
Dad would be proud of the hounds I keep; Some day in fox hunter's heaven Dad and I will meet.
Until that day comes I will do my best; Cause some day I know I will get my rest.
If my kids are as proud of me as I was Dad; The good Lord knows I won't be sad."

(Kenneth died in an accident at the age of 46.)


Marilynn Helle: "Dad was a very hard working, fun loving man. He owned and operated his sawmill and also farmed. We always had a couple milk cows. He bought 55 acres outside of Putnam and raised cattle and sheep. Dad had two passions - Hunting and ice creams. He always had guns and fox hounds and loved to spend the nights listening to his dog run a fox. We spent many a night when I was growing up parked along a dirt road listening to the dogs run. In the winter, Dad would day hunt with an eye on profit. Any fox he saw, he shot for the pelt."


The following obituary was in the newspaper:
Donald Helle, 52, a former Fulton county resident, was electrocuted Tuesday afternoon, while at work in a wooded area near Tiskilwa. An inquest conducted at the scene showed that Helle's death occurred accidentally when a truck crane boom, operated by another worker struck high voltage power line. Helle was on the truck helping load wood. He and his brothers, Gene and Verle, operated as sawmill at Oregon, IL.
His wife, four sons, three daughters, his mother, nine brothers and two sisters survive him.
Donald married Geraldine McCluen, daughter of Harry McCluen and Mary Knowles, in 1935. Geraldine was born on 2 Jun 1916 in Wyoming, IL, died on 5 Jul 2000 in Castlegar, BC at age 84, and was buried in Jul 2000 in First Memorial Funeral Service And Crematorium; Fauquer, BC.

Geraldine McCluen
Marriage Notes: (1st Marriage)
Donald next married Hallie "Jean" Underwood, daughter of Elijah W. Underwood and Laura Etta Skaggs, on 31 Mar 1940 in Buffalo, Iowa. Hallie was born on 13 Dec 1921 in Tiskilwa, Illinois and died in Tiskilwa, Illinois.
 

Jean Helle

The child from this marriage was:
   37 M    i. Kenneth Roy Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 21 Nov 1943 in Princeton, IL and died on 31 May 1991 in IL at age 47.

Kenneth Helle


13. Walter "Walt" (William Frederick) Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 20 Jun 1912 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 18 Apr 2000 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 87, and was buried in Apr 2000 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.
General Notes: Gail Helle: "Walter has spent most of his adult life in the lumber business and most of these years working together with his brother Sheldon. Walter would never swear, even as a child, when his schoolmates would twist his arms trying to force him to swear. Sheldon did the swearing for both of them."

Sheldon Helle: "When sister Ethel came down with the measles and Mom had to go help take care of her. Walt was elected cook. It took a lot of beans for fifteen people, so Walt, not knowing beans would swell to 2to 3 times their normal size when cooked, put on to cook what he thought would be enough. We sure had a lot of beans; about every spare kettle was full. Walter rearranged Mom's kitchen like our bachelor neighbor with all the utensils hanging on the wall. When Mom got home she sure put her kitchen back like it was in a hurry."

In his book, Walt tells of becoming ill at the age of thirteen: "I had a severe case of acute Bright's Disease. The doctor told my mother to put me to bed and give me all the water I could drink with no food of any kind. My headache continued and my little brother, Gail, faithfully brought me water with tears in his eyes, fearing that I would die if I did not drink lots of it."

Source: Frederick Helle & Katherine Krauser, 1985, by Alice Riley: "Walter Helle was named William Frederick. However, when people started calling him Billy, Ida, who hated nicknames, started calling him Frederick. Soon he was being called Freddie, so she changed his name to Walter thinking no one could make a nickname out of that. Walter knew nothing about this until 1960 when he needed a birth certificate. He learned that the only son born to George and Ida Helle on 20 June 1912 was William Frederick Helle. Ida told Walter what had happened. He had the name changed on his birth certificate to just Walter Helle."

Shawn Lovejoy said: "Walt, was always the statesman, with his voice and presence he should have either been a minister or in Politics. He had such a commanding presence whenever he entered a room and always with a story of the old days."

Lee Helle: "A true story that has been passed down about Walt, is the time they using a small Cat to drag logs across part of a frozen river. The cat broke through the ice and sunk out of sight. Walter was there standing beside this hole in the ice and he kept repeating these words (Believe You, Me) the closest anyone had ever heard him cuss.

This was back in the early 30s, Cats that were used then, could to day be hauled in a 3/4 ton pickup. My uncles got that Cat out of the river, by dismantling it in the water and carrying it one piece at a time to shore. This is Winter Time! but that Cat was their lively hood. I had Tough Uncles!"

In 1935, Delbert, Walter and Sheldon Helle operated a Sawmill in Galena, moving it to Dubuque, Iowa in 1940. Sheldon and Walter operated a sawmill in Savanna, IL from 1940-1986.

OBITUARY:

WALTER HELLE , 87, of Savanna, died Tuesday, Apn1 18, his home. He owned and operated Wood Products, Inc., with his brother, Sheldon, for 42 years. He also raised Black Angus cattle, was a contractor who built Wick Homes and developed the Carroll. Heights and Prairie Subdivisions in Savanna. His memberships included Cal­vary Baptist Church in Savanna where he served as a deacon for many years; Savanna Moose Lodge; and a past member of the Savanna Rotary Club. He also served on the Savanna Hospital board in the 1960s.
He enjoyed traveling and loved to play the harmonica and accordion, especially for the residents of Big Meadows Nursing Home. Most important to him were his children, grandchildren and great-grand­children. Born June 20, 1912, in Cuba, Ill., he was the son of George and Ida (Kaler) Helle. He attended Fulton Country Schools near Canton. He and Alice Helle were married Aug. 13, 1932, in Toulon. She died July 21, 1995.
Surviving are one daughter, Janice (Ken) Mills of Holiday Island, Ark.; three sons, Vernon (Delores) Helle of Pittsfield, and Stanley (Lorraine) Helle and Joseph (Pat) Helle, both of Savanna; seven grandchildren; nine great­grandchildren; and two brothers, Joseph (Henrietta) Helle of Cuba, Ill., and Harley Eugene Helle of Arkansas. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by one son, Burdette, seven brothers and three sisters. The funeral service was held Saturday, April 22, at Law-Jones Funeral Home in Savanna with Pastor Gene Meyers of the Green Rock First Southern Baptist Church in Colona officiating. Burial was in Savanna Township Cemetery.
Walter married Alice Frona Williams on 13 Aug 1932 in Toulon, Illinois. Alice was born on 13 Feb 1912 in Princeton, IL, died on 21 Jul 1995 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Jul 1995 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.

Walt and Alice (with Janice & Vernon) Helle

Children from this marriage were:
   38 M    i. Burnette Walter Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 30 Sep 1935 in Galena, Illinois, died on 6 Mar 1937 in Galesburg, Illinois at age 1, and was buried in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.
   39 F    ii. Janice Arlene "Jan" Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 29 Dec 1937 in Galesburg, Illinois and died on 28 Mar 2005 in Eureka, Arkansas at age 67.

14. Sheldon Lyle Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 25 Nov 1913 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 26 Jan 1997 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 83, and was buried in Jan 1997 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.
General Notes: In 1935, Delbert, Walter and Sheldon operated a Sawmill in Galena, moving it to Dubuque, Iowa in 1940. Sheldon and Walter operated a sawmill in Savanna, IL from 1940-1986.

Sheldon wrote: "I was a lively kid and got into more than my share of troubles... too many to relate here. However, an example of my first swimming lesson, I was fishing off of the end of a homemade diving board and fell asleep. Wakened when I landed in the water, my choice was clear and I swam."

Gail Helle: "We had to watch Sheldon because if we were discussing changes or about doing something, we had to talk low or Sheldon would have it done before we even knew if we had a good idea. All in all, I have really enjoyed my relationship with Sheldon and Walt from all the years I have worked with them. What a privilege it has been to work with and be with these two guys. It has been fun."

Lorraine: " When growing up, I had fourteen uncles. Quite an honor I felt, and I had my favorites but never in a lifetime have I ever wished for any father other than my own dear "Popper." I know him well, his virtues and his faults. I suppose my mother has put up with him because his virtues outweigh his faults. though sometimes it is hard to tell the difference. He was a progressive thinker - usually ahead of his time. He has really contributed to this town: with school boards, land developing, pallet factory, city council, etc. I am so proud of him. As a little child the neighbor girls and I decided Dad would make a good president of the U.S. We weren't at all naive. I remember him spanking me once when I was four years old - that was probably the first and last time. Spankings weren't needed. He would poke my shoulder with his finger and that was worse than any spanking. I hated it. Dad is a notorious joke teller. He remembers them all and tells them well-a real artist. He could take every child in the neighborhood and stretch their wrist and convince them the bones come apart. He'd stick his finger through a hole in the bottom of a match stick box - pour ketchup around the finger and show it to the children. His poor cut-off finger, Yuk!! He took us all over the United States on vacations. He's a historical nut. It's hard to argue with someone who knows his facts, but I still love to debate with him and Uncle Don Walton. Dad taught us to appreciate this beautiful country."

Shawn Lovejoy: "My fondest memories include my Uncle Sheldon, I don't think he ever knew my real name, I was always "Mike" to him. I am sure you remember when I was a kid and every time I saw him, it was Mike have you heard this joke yet... always a joke."

Louise: "One of the most vivid memories is of Dad in his striped overalls. I do mean bib-overalls! Well, it was our opinion that a proper business gentleman should not wear striped overalls to the office. It took quite some time, but we eventually convinced him. I think it only took 10 or 15 years. Dad has a reputation for walking fast. Mother has a reputation for walking slow. We often joke and say that mother has two speeds, slow and stop. Dad would park the car, get out, shut his car door, scurry down the street with we children straggling somewhere in between, and buy the tickets while Mother was still opening her door. Dad and Uncle Walter were so close that it was always stated that when one itched the other scratched. Well, we know which one did the scratching! We also know which brother did the cussing for the other brother, who never swore beyond an occasional "...believe me. Mother and Dad have lived an interesting existence. They have had a unique and special fifty years together.
Sheldon married Hazel Nelle Hendrick, daughter of Frederick Vincent "Fred" Hendrick and Nelle M. Ault, on 11 May 1935. Hazel was born on 19 Jul 1914 in Wyoming, IL, died on 15 Jul 1989 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois at age 74, and was buried in Jul 1989 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois.

Sheldon and Hazel Helle

The child from this marriage was:
   40 M    i. Lyle Raymond Helle Mayflower Desc was born on 15 Mar 1936 in Peoria, IL, died on 7 Sep 1956 in Lanark, Carroll County, IL at age 20, and was buried in Sep 1956 in Savanna Cemetery, Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois. The cause of his death was Truck Accident.

20. Howard Berlin Bolon Mayflower Desc. was born on 22 Mar 1908 in Smithfield, Cass Twp, Fulton Co, IL, died on 28 Feb 1972 in Canton, Illinois at age 63, and was buried in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.
Howard married Nancy "Ella" Kaler Mayflower Desc., daughter of Henry Oscar Kaler Mayflower Desc. and Alice Thompson, on 22 Mar 1930 in Peoria, IL. Nancy was born on 7 Oct 1906 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 1 Dec 1999 in St. Louis Park, MN at age 93, and was buried in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery; Cuba, Illinois.

Children from this marriage were:
   41 M    i. Charles Henry Bolon Mayflower Desc. was born on 23 Jul 1934 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 7 Sep 1952 in Canton, Illinois at age 18, and was buried in Sinnett Chapel Cemetery, Cuba, IL.
   42 M    ii. Benjamin Joseph Bolon Mayflower Desc. was born on 10 Sep 1942 in Canton, Illinois and died in Feb 1990 in Fulton County, IL at age 47.

22. John Abraham "Wig" Orwig "Johnny" was born on 9 Mar 1887 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 27 Feb 1966 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 78, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
Noted events in his life were:
" Death: 27 Sep 1966, Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
John married Mabel Edith Ford in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois. Mabel was born on 23 May 1899 in Whites Ferry, Smithfield, Illinois, died on 24 Dec 1918 in Canton, Illinois at age 19, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
John next married Margaret Botkins on 23 Dec 1917 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois. Margaret was born from about 1887 to 1889.

The child from this marriage was:
   43 M    i. Milton Robert Orwig was born on 14 Dec 1918 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 7 Mar 1995 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 76.
Milton married Mary Matilda Carver on 9 Apr 1940 in Kahoka, MO. Mary was born on 19 Jan 1921 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
23. Catherine Olive "Katie" Orwig was born on 9 Sep 1888 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 14 Jul 1982 in Galesburg, Illinois at age 93, and was buried in Jul 1982 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
Catherine married Reuben Allen Herrick on 24 Dec 1913 in Lewistown, Fulton Co., Illinois. Reuben was born on 24 Nov 1891 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 3 Dec 1953 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 62, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

Children from this marriage were:
   44 F    i. Mabel Wildora Herrick was born on 30 Oct 1914 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Mabel married William Howard Bobo on 30 Dec 1933 in Sterling, Illinois. William was born on 3 Mar 1909 in Butler Co., Missouri, died on 27 Jul 1982 in St. Joseph's Hospital, Bloomington, IL at age 73, and was buried in Parkview Cemetery, Peoria, IL.
   45 M    ii. Wesley Luther Herrick was born on 30 Sep 1918 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
Wesley married Janet Ruth Hippe on 17 Jul 1948 in Peoria, IL. Janet was born on 12 Apr 1925 in Peoria, IL.
   46 M    iii. Ghlee Floyd Herrick was born on 30 Sep 1921 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Ghlee married Ruth May Hallam. Ruth was born on 25 Oct 1918 in Rock Island, Illinois.
   47 F    iv. Edna Olive Herrick was born on 22 Nov 1925 in Colchester, IL and died on 30 Sep 1976 in Peoria, IL at age 50.
Edna married Jesse Jerome Carver on 12 Apr 1945 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois. Jesse was born on 30 Jun 1917 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
   48 M    v. Earl Harvey Herrick was born on 21 Jun 1927 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Earl married Mary Lou Morgan on 28 Jul 1947 in Lewistown, Fulton Co., Illinois. Mary was born on 23 Jun 1928 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
   49 F    vi. Alta Eliza Herrick was born on 30 Mar 1929 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Alta married Henry Gale Shaner on 25 Jun 1949 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois. Henry was born on 27 Jun 1925 in Galesburg, Illinois.
24. Dena Elizabeth Orwig was born on 9 Dec 1889 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 20 Dec 1971 in Abington, Illinois at age 82.
General Notes: Dena was born in the log cabin on the Orwig Homestead north of Smithfield, Illinois. She learned well the skills of a housewife of the early twentieth century. Her gardening, sewing and quilting skills served her family throughout her life. Her father, John Wesley Orwig, was a domineering man who ruled his family, no questions or disobedience permitted. Dena was the first child to rebel against his domination by marrying Ralph Cadwalader. Because of the stormy scenes which followed, Dena had to remain away from her parents home for many years.
Dena and Ralph first set up housekeeping in Grandmother Katharine Helle's home. They soon moved to Bettendorf, Iowa where they remained the rest of their married lives.
Dena married Ralph Cadwalader Sr. on 3 Jan 1912 in Macomb, Illinois. Ralph was born on 6 Dec 1891 in Wellington, Kansas and died on 25 Jul 1970 in Davenport, Iowa at age 78.

Children from this marriage were:
   50 F    i. Dena Edith Caldwalader was born on 20 Jun 1916 in Bettendorf, Iowa, died on 14 Feb 1972 in Bettendorf, Iowa at age 55, and was buried in Memorial Park Cemetery, Davenport, Iowa.
   51 M    ii. Ralph Lincoln Caldwalader Jr. was born on 23 Dec 1917 in Bettendorf, Iowa.
   52 M    iii. Grant Alfred Caldwalader was born on 4 Jan 1922 in Bettendorf, Iowa and died on 7 Jul 1973 in Davenport, Iowa at age 51.
   53 M    iv. Logan Woodrow Caldwalader was born on 2 Jan 1924 in Bettendorf, Iowa and died on 9 Jan 1986 in Stillwater, Oklahoma at age 62.
   54 F    v. Ardith Willadean Cadwalader was born on 28 Feb 1929 in Bettendorf, Iowa.
   55 M    vi. Ardith Willadean Caldwalader was born in 1929 in Bettendorf, Iowa.

25. Charles Frederick "Fred" Orwig was born on 26 Apr 1892 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 27 Feb 1948 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 55, and was buried in Feb 1948 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
General Notes: Charles Frederick, "Fred", was born in his parents one room log cabin on their farm in Polecat Hollow, north of Smithfield, IL. He learned early the skills of farming and working in the timber. He attended the White Oak Grove School but did not get to complete his last year, eighth grade. Brother Henry related that as a young adult, Fred wanted to buy a motorcycle, but was talked out of it and bought seventeen acres of timber land in the "Pikington Hollow" northwest of Cuba instead. He built a one room house there and worked at cleaning the land when he was not needed to help with the farm work on his father's farms. In 1915 the John Dick family moved to farm nearby and in the fall of that year he courted and married Vina Elizabeth Dick.
Charles married Vina Elizabeth Dick on 24 Nov 1915 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois. Vina was born on 25 Apr 1897 in Prairie City, IL, died on 14 Apr 1972 in Canton, Illinois at age 74, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

Children from this marriage were:
   56 F    i. Francis Pauline Orwig was born on 9 Sep 1918 in Bernadette, Illinois.
   57 F    ii. Tressa Leota Orwig was born on 20 Jan 1920 in Bernadette, Illinois.
Tressa married Harry Kenneth Willstead on 6 Feb 1939 in Kahoka, MO. Harry was born on 1 Mar 1914 in Canton, Illinois, died on 7 Nov 1979 in Rural Dixon, IL at age 65, and was buried in Dixon Cemetery, Dixon, IL.
   58 M    iii. Charles Edward Orwig was born on 24 Feb 1921 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois.
   59 M    iv. James Richard Orwig was born on 21 Nov 1923 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois and died in 1979 in Peoria, IL at age 56.
   60 F    v. Martha Elizabeth Orwig was born on 5 Dec 1935 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 21 Dec 1961 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at age 26, and was buried in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

27. William Milton "Milt" Orwig was born on 17 Mar 1895 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL, died on 25 Jun 1980 in Canton, Illinois at age 85, and was buried in Jun 1980 in Baughman-Brock Cemetery, Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL.
General Notes: Milt was a cheerful, good natured man and generous. He always whistled when working or when walking to and from town. Inducted into the Army in 1918, he returned home during the night unannounced. The next morning seven year old Nellie Hayes told her mother, "Whistlin Milt" is home. During the night she had heard Milt whistling she walked from the depot at Smithfield to the home place in Polecat Hollow.

Milt was inducted into the Army in June 1918, and shipped to camp Wheeler in Georgia for his training. In late September his company traveled to Camp Mills, Long Island, NY for shipment overseas. Becoming ill, he was hospitalized for over two weeks in October. He was shipped to France the end of October. On 8 Jan 1919 in a letter to his sister, Katie, he wrote, "I had a good time on the ship coming over. I was working in the kitchen all the way across and I did not get sea sick... I am making it pretty good the way the weather is over here... It rains almost everyday. The climate does not agree with me. I have a cold in my head and it does not get any better.. I have the rheumatism in my back and arms and it gets worse whenever I am out and get wet..." In the same letter he wrote about his concern for Katie's children and his wish to be home. " I would like to get back in time to put out some corn and oats, but I may not get to."
He reached Camp Grant Rockford, Illinois the 10th of Oct and got back in February.

At age 50 Milt courted and married Rosie. She brought a 12 year old daughter into the marriage. Milt and Rosie were married nearly 37 years when he died at the age of 85.
William married Rosie (Cleavenger) O'lane on 16 Sep 1946 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL. Rosie was born on 21 Jun 1904 in Littleton, Illinois. Another name for Rosie was Rose Cleavenger.
William next married Vada Alice Cannon before 1917. Vada was born in 1894 and died in 1926 at age 32.

The child from this marriage was:
   61 M    i. Eldon Lewis Orwig was born on 16 Mar 1917 and died on 17 Apr 1917.

28. Martha Jane Orwig was born on 9 Mar 1897 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 16 Oct 1938 in Peoria, IL at age 41, and was buried in Oct 1938 in Cuba Cemetery, Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Martha married Elzy "Curtis" Moore on 5 Aug 1914 in Peoria, IL. Elzy was born on 14 Jul 1893 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL, died on 21 Jan 1937 in New Philadelphia, Mcdonough Co., Illinois at age 43, and was buried in Cuba Cemetery, Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois. Another name for Elzy was Ellzy Moore.

Children from this marriage were:
   62 M    i. Oscar Galen Moore was born in Nov 1914 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois, died in May 1968 in Peoria, IL at age 53, and was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Farmington, IL.
Oscar married Anita Helen Stevens in May 1941 in Savanna, Carroll Co., Illinois. Anita was born about 1915.
+ 63 F    ii. Anna Louise Moore was born on 11 Oct 1916 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.

+ 64 M    iii. Robert Dwayne Moore was born on 13 Aug 1923 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 6 Jan 1976 in Canton, Illinois at age 52.
   65 F    iv. Thelma Maxine Moore was born on 3 Oct 1919 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Thelma married John Warren Gibson on 1 Nov 1941 in Hannibal, Missouri. John was born on 7 Aug 1921 in Eubank, KY.
29. Frank Byran Orwig was born on 19 Jul 1898 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 15 May 1975 in Canton, Illinois at age 76, and was buried in May 1975 in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.
Frank married Mary Catherine Myers on 20 Jan 1957 in Fairview, Fulton Co., Illinois. Mary was born on 5 Jun 1903 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 11 Feb 1969 in Canton, Illinois at age 65, and was buried in Wiley Lutheran Cemetery, Ellisville, IL.

The child from this marriage was:
   66 M    i. Gordon Franklin Orwig was born on 8 Jun 1933 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 11 Nov 1938 in Canton, Illinois at age 5.

30. James Raymond "Jim" Orwig was born on 14 May 1900 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, was christened <24 May 1901>, died on 20 Dec 1960 in Avon, Illinois at age 60, and was buried in Dec 1960 in Memorial Gardens, Macomb, Illinois.
James married Lera Adell Rock on 6 Jun 1922 in United Brethren Parsonage, Smithfield, IL. Lera was born on 23 Apr 1902 in Ellisville, Illinois.

The child from this marriage was:
   67 F    i. Erma Elizabeth Orwig was born on 25 Feb 1923 in Fairview, Fulton Co., Illinois.

31. Henry David Orwig was born on 23 Sep 1903 in Smithfield, Fulton Co., Illinois, died on 7 Jan 1985 in Smithfield, Cass Twp., Fulton Co., IL at age 81, and was buried in Jan 1985 in Astoria Cemetery, Astoria, Illinois.
Henry married Myrl Zelphia Lemasters on 16 Dec 1924 in New Philadelphia, Mound Township, Illinois. Myrl was born on 28 Jan 1903 in New Philadelphia, Mound Township, Illinois, died on 30 Jun 1957 in Astoria, Illinois at age 54, and was buried in Astoria Cemetery, Astoria, Illinois.

Children from this marriage were:
   68 F    i. Betty Lou Orwig was born on 22 Jun 1927 in New Philadelphia, Mound Township, Illinois, died on 18 May 1985 in Rushville, IL at age 57, and was buried in Astoria Cemetery, Astoria, Illinois.
Betty married Thomas "Tommy" Delbert Thomas on 23 Dec 1946 in Peoria, IL. Thomas was born on 29 Aug 1920 in Enion, IL, died on 26 Feb 2002 in Culbertson Memorial Hospital, Rushville, Schuyler Co., Illinois at age 81, and was buried on 2 Mar 2002 in Woodland Cemetery, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Noted events in his life were:
" Military: U. S. Army, WW II.
" Occupation: worked at Caterpillar for 29 years.
" Occupation: Farmer.
" Funeral Service: 2 Mar 2002, Assembly Of God Church, Astoria, IL. Rev. Terry Lucas officiating
   69 M    ii. Dwayne Leroy Orwig was born on 21 Mar 1929 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois and died before 17 Jan 2002 in Fulton County, IL.
   70 F    iii. Linda Mae Orwig was born on 27 Jun 1947 in Canton, Illinois, died on 17 Jan 2002 in Culbertson Memorial Hospital, Rushville, Schuyler Co., Illinois at age 54, and was buried in Astoria Cemetery, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Noted events in her life were:
" Resided: : Astoria, Illinois.
" Occupation: : Astoria Healthcare Center.
" Funeral Service: 21 Jan 2002, Astoria At Shawgo Memorial Home. Rev. Cliff Perry officiating
 
  Fourth Generation


32. Ava Janene Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 9 Apr 1930 in Fulton County, IL and died on 7 Jan 1994 in Fulton County, Illinois at age 63.
General Notes: Ava was interested in genealogy research, and was active in collecting and compiling information for the Fulton County Heritage Book as well as the Helle Krauser Ancestry publication. Ava had a friendly, happy personality, which welcomed you into her home and her heart. She is missed by all who knew her.

AVA JANENE HELLE, like many other Helle descendants, grew up on the banks of Spoon River -- south of Ellisville, in the Babylon Bend. Her autobiography follows:

"I remember music, good country food, books, a humming sewing machine, cows to milk and eggs to gather. Our recreation, work and life seemed to center around food preparation for our family of five children and two adults plus anyone else who happened by. We gathered wild blackberries, hickory nuts and walnuts, apples, beans and peas, stemmed goose berries and picked grapes. We splashed in creeks and played around "The Rocks," built tree houses and sand castles and mud farms, a real bank barn and sheds, and finally, a real house on the Bushnell farm. Dad made teeter - totters, swings, merry - go - rounds and even a Ferris wheel. But the Ferris wheel didn't turn out to be successful as Leila can testify. No matter what happened, we always saw Uncle Lloyd's (Helle) family at least once a week. We were kept so busy whenever missed the excitement of town living. To add to our education and appreciation of life, Dad taught the five of us various musical instruments. We attended a number of events that we might not have gone to otherwise. However, after our sister, Joyce's, death in 1948, performing was never the same. Public education in the '30's and '40's was quite basic in our rural schools. In fact, it was rather boring. Education at home was not boring. Our folks seemingly were always at least two steps ahead. A large chalkboard was kept in a prominent place in the kitchen. One time it might be a work place for a laggard in long division. Many times it was divided into five sections with the words "Aren't -- Ain't." If anyone caught you saying "Ain't" you got a tally mark against you. Too many of them and you didn't get a nickel that week. Some of us still say "Ain't" but at least Mom tried to instill good grammar. If we were to be taught fractions or decimals in January, somehow or another, Mom and Dad were playing math work featuring the new skills in November. This information was not fed to us as games, however. We learned through sewing, cooking, music, farm work, etc. Fractions were taught through music. Practical math through work. Visits to the Bushnell library were weekly affairs. Our house featured boxes, shelves, bookcases and attics of books, pictures and magazines. This treasure had been gathered by four generations of the Fouts family that included my mother, Alta Fouts. I used to sneak a last peek with a flashlight at an old Youth Companion since the folks would see the old "Delco" light in my bedroom. We moved back and forth from our home south of Ellisville to a farm near Bushnell every fall and spring from 1945 to 1949 in order that we might secure a better education from the Bushnell schools. And, I might add, I believe that we did. Leila, Norman and I did graduate from Bushnell High School. After Joyce's death in 1948, the family made one more complete move and then moved back to the Ellisville farm to stay. The Bushnell farm was sold later. My mother was never really happy at the Bushnell farm. Some fond memories of my relatives and love of music include playing the piano -- "chording" for my grandfather George A. Helle, father Royle Helle and for my uncles Delbert, Don and Verle. I have also played or sung with various relatives -- Joann (Helle) Courtney, Allan Blout, Aunt Charlotte (Helle) Osbom and family plus my brothers, sisters, daughters and son, niece Paula Helle and nephew, Steve Helle. I can remember always wanting to teach.
Ava married Samuel Emerson Boyce, son of Joe Boyce and Franklin Harrison "Frankie" Schraeder, on 21 Nov 1953 in Ellisville, Fulton Co., Illinois. Samuel was born on 13 Oct 1916 in Joshua Twp., Fulton Co., IL.

The child from this marriage was:
   71 M    i. Samuel Edward Boyce Mayflower Desc. was born on 30 Dec 1954 in Avon, Illinois and died on 30 Dec 1954 in Avon, Illinois.

35. Lawrence James "Dig" Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 23 Aug 1934 in Peoria, IL, died on 19 Oct 2003 at age 69, and was buried on 15 Nov 2003.
General Notes: Following poems were written by Lawrence:
MASTER ON HIGH
"When I go at last, to my master on high
To that Great golden city in the Sky
Like a lost sheep returning to the fold
I shall go to the city paved with Gold.
Though my stay here on earth is filled with strife
And I know not the purpose of my lonely life
To my Master's great teaching I always will hold
Till I go to that great city, paved with gold.

Though each day may bring sorrow,
Each day may bring grief,
I can face all my troubles
If I just keep my belief.
Though my days here are short,
When I cross that great shore
I will dwell in that city,
With my Lord ever more."

MARY
Mary gave a Son to earth
A Son that came from God above
Mary gave a Son to earth
The Christ child came to show God's love

Mary gave a Son to Earth
In lowly manger He was born
Mary gave a Son to earth
From Heaven's bosem He was torn

Mary gave a Son to earth
A star shown bright to light the way
Mary gave a Son to earth
The wise men came to kneel and pray

Mary's child is now our own
He came to save a world from sin
Mary's child is now our own
Open your heart and let Him in!"

_________________________________________________

A Tribute to Lawrence by his brothers and sisters:

"Although Lawrence by trade was a sawmill man, he was multi-talented. There was little he couldn't do when he set his mind to it. While a young father, he remodeled a house that had burned. His wood working skills were extraordinary and he could take a car apart and put it back together better than most mechanics. As a teenager he used Mom's sewing machine to make Naugahyde upholstery for his car that looked professionally done. He was an exceptional cook and when his health prohibited him from working in the mill, he developed a bakery business. He was an artist who could create beautiful clocks out of a knot on a log, and he was the brother with a heart as big as all outdoors and an an imagination that gave him a story telling gift that could embellish a story to unbelievable degrees. Though both of his ex-wives called him "Larry", he was Lawrence or "Dig" to his family and friends. We called him Dig from the time he was a little boy, digging in the dirt to make roads for his little homemade wooden trucks.

His songs were only a part of a many faceted person. We cannot share his laughter, his love of life, or the special place he held in our hearts, but we can share these few lyrics to give the reader a "window" into this special man we knew as our brother."
Lawrence married on 4 Apr 1981 in Farmington, Illinois.
Marriage Notes: They were divorced in 1998


The child from this marriage was:
   72 F    i. Christina Helle Mayflower Desc. was born on 26 Feb 1984 in Jacksonville, Illinois and died on 26 Feb 1984 in Jacksonville, Illinois.

63. Anna Louise Moore was born on 11 Oct 1916 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.
Anna married Orlistus Robert Grady on 9 Aug 1936 in Fayette, Missouri. Orlistus was born on 8 Mar 1915 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois.

Children from this marriage were:
   73 F    i. Mary Lee Grady was born on 6 Apr 1956 in Canton, Illinois and died on 4 Jun 1956 in Peoria, IL.
   74 F    ii. Janet Sue Grady was born on 11 Sep 1958 in Canton, Illinois and died on 6 Oct 1983 in Peoria, IL at age 25.
Janet married Edward Ruben Garcia on 23 Sep 1978 in Trivoli, IL. Edward was born on 23 Aug 1946 in Colorado and died on 29 Mar 1981 in Bloomington, IL at age 34.
64. Robert Dwayne Moore was born on 13 Aug 1923 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois and died on 6 Jan 1976 in Canton, Illinois at age 52.
Robert married Elizabeth Louise Harfst. Elizabeth was born on 4 Dec 1923 in Peckham, OK and died on 24 Nov 1950 in Canton, Illinois at age 26.

The child from this marriage was:
   75 F    i. Sherron Ann Moore was born on 9 Oct 1944 in Canton, Illinois and died on 25 Jun 1969 in Cuba, Fulton Co., Illinois at age 24.
Robert next married Neva E. Zaborac. Neva was born about 1924.

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