Carole Ruth Helmers

Carole Ruth Helmers, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, gently departed this world on November 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 6, 1944, in Janesville, Wisconsin, Carole was the beloved daughter of John Paul and Nancy Herzig. Her life reflected kindness, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to those she loved. Carole's formative years were spent in Janesville, where she graduated from Janesville Senior High School in 1962. Driven by a passion for education, she pursued a teaching degree at Wisconsin State University-Whitewater, graduating in 1967. Her thirst for knowledge led her to further her education at Nicholls State University. Carole dedicated her professional life to nurturing young minds as an elementary school teacher, with a particular fondness for pre-kindergarten students. Her influence extended beyond academics; she instilled confidence, curiosity, and compassion in her students, leaving an indelible mark on each life she touched. In 1969, Carole married the love of her life, Stephen Helmers, embarking on a journey of love and partnership that spanned 57 beautiful years. Together, they built a family rooted in love, understanding, and shared adventures. Carole's legacy continues through her children, Lisa (Paul) Podkomorski, Brent (Ramona Plesa) Helmers, and Jennifer (Mark) Froese, who inherited her warmth and grace. Her spirit lives on in her grandchildren, Brittany(Matthew Carlson) Schwonke, Mitchell (Amie) Schwonke, Kiah (Angel Almanza) Ayers, Kobe (Makayla Nadeau) Ayers, Kaiden (Jaiden Arellano) Froese, Ryann and Dallas Lenardic Helmers, their mother, Kerri Lenardic, and Townes Anderson, as well as her great-grandchildren, Londyn Schultz and Timmy Schwonke. Her mischievous Springer Spaniel, Otis, will also miss her. Carole found joy in the simplest pleasures—exploring the great outdoors, traveling to new destinations, and gathering with friends over meals rich with laughter and stories. She was an avid reader, always ready to delve into a new book and explore its world. Her keen intelligence and organizational skills were matched only by her fairness and kindness, endearing her to everyone she met. Carole is predeceased by her parents, Paul and Nancy Herzig; her mother-in-law, Dorothy Helmers; father-in-law, Henry Helmers, her sister-in-law, Jane Helmers; and her special aunt, Hazel Olson. She leaves behind her loving husband, Stephen; her brother and sister-in-law, Bryon and Carol Herzig; and her brother-in-law, Doug Helmers, along with a host of friends and extended family who will miss her dearly. In honor of Carole's wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to celebrate her remarkable life. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Carole's memory to the Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation, in support of those affected by these diseases. Alternatively, please consider donating blood or blood products. Your generosity may help save or extend the life of someone facing a similar journey. These acts of kindness would be a meaningful tribute to her memory. Carole Ruth Helmers will be remembered for her boundless love, her unshakeable strength, and the joy she brought into the lives of everyone she encountered. Her legacy is one of love, learning, and a life well-lived.