Helen Louise Overturf Johnson Theulen passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, at her home of 65 years surrounded by family.
Helen was born to Harvey and Ethel (Renfrew) Overturf on January 24, 1935, near Blakesburg, Iowa. She grew up with siblings Ralph, Thelma, and Gladys.
She was educated at Wellman and Jay Schools and graduated from Blakesburg High School in 1952. She attended Iowa State Teacher College in Cedar Falls, Iowa.
Helen married Gordon Ernest Johnson on May 29, 1956. The couple moved to Alaska where he was stationed in the Army. They raised children, Jeff and Susan Lynn in Blakesburg. As a family, they enjoyed camping trips, especially at the Johnson family cabin in Minnesota, picnics, family gatherings, and visiting Arizona relatives.
Helen taught first grade in Washington, Iowa, and later had various positions at Blakesburg Schools. Gordon was deceased in 1987.
Gram J. supported her granddaughters by attending their activities and school events. She was a proud grandma of a teacher and a pastor.
Helen married Bernard Theulen on November 9, 1996. She and Bernie enjoyed camping, bus tours, and visiting Bernie’s family and grandchildren.
Helen spent time at Whispering Woods with Jeff and Ilene.
Helen was an encourager, listener, bird watcher, and kept in touch with friends and family through writing letters for 15 years. Helen had many conversations on the porch and waved to passersbys. Her faith was shared with all through prayers and phone calls. She was a member of Blakesburg Methodist Church and numerous community organizations holding various positions.
Helen is survived by her children, Jeff (Ilene) Johnson of Blakesburg, Iowa, and Susan (Bruce) Dake of Creston, Iowa; granddaughters, Brooke (David) Snyder of Adair, Iowa, and Courtney Dake of Hamburg, Iowa, and many relatives, friends and neighbors.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband Gordon; and husband Bernie.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, opening to the public at 1:00 p.m, and Helen’s family will be present from 3-5 p.m., at Sinnott Funeral Home in Albia. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Courtney Dake and Gary Fifer co-officiating at the Blakesburg Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Blakesburg Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Blakesburg Fire Department or the Blakesburg Methodist Church.
