Helen (Olson) Bengston

Helen Mae Bengston, 85, of Crystal Lake passed away Friday, June 24, 2022.  She was born on May 24, 1937, to Grant and Olga Olson in Escanaba, MI.

Helen attended Escanaba schools and graduated from Escanaba Area High School in 1955. She attended Augustana College and received a BA in elementary education in 1959.  She began her teaching career in Green Bay, WI.

On June 17, 1961, Helen married Gene Bengston.  They raised their family of three children in Crystal Lake in a home filled with love and happiness. Helen and Gene were married for 62 years.

Helen’s passion was teaching.  She taught 5th grade at South Elementary School and Indian Prairie School in Crystal Lake School District 47.   Helen was involved with many organizations over the years including PEO Chapter JH, Retired Teachers Association of McHenry County, and AAUW.  Helen was a very active member of Bethany Lutheran Church.  She enjoyed volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Crystal Lake Food Pantry, and PADS.

Known for her sense of humor, Helen knew how to laugh and have a good time.  Helen enjoyed celebrating all holidays with her family. She thoroughly cherished her grandchildren and the time she was able to spend with them.

Survivors include her husband, Gene; children, Barbara Dubow, John (Cheryl) Bengston, and Susan (Kevin) Diebold; grandchildren, Andy Dubow, Kari (Cody) Whirry, Michael Bengston, Erin Bengston, Katelyn Diebold, and Courtney Diebold.   She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Marguerite (Lewellyn) Mineau.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 30, from 4pm until 7pm at Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 W Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake.  A visitation will continue Friday morning from 10am until the time of a funeral service at 11am at the church.  Burial will be held privately at Windridge Memorial Park, Cary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, IL.