Shirley Helgesen

Shirley Ann Helgesen (Pruess), age 81, of Pierre, South Dakota went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

She was a beloved wife of Al Helgesen (the absolute love of her life) for 47 years. The two of them settled in Pierre to raise their family and live life to the fullest.

They had two daughters, Annette Sherrill (Todd) of Lake Elmo, Minnesota; and Tammy Cruse (Brad) also of Pierre. They were so incredibly blessed with 4 amazing grandsons, Aaron, Ryan, Raury and Cole; 2 lovely daughters-in-law, Morgan and Kadence; grandson’s sweet girlfriend, Libby and a whole team full of bouncy granddogs and grandcats that kept things lively. Shirley is also survived by her dear sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Dale Misterek; as well as many nieces and nephews!

Shirley is preceded in death by her loving husband, Al; Mom and Dad, Walter and Doris Pruess; her brother and sisters-in-law, Donny and LeAnn Pruess, Merce Pruess; sister and brother-in-law, Alice and Ted Englund.

Some of the favorite things that filled her days to the brim with such joy included: sipping a cold glass of iced tea while spending precious time sitting out on the deck with dear friends and family, cheering at kids’ and grandkids’ many sporting events, enjoying family boating and camping adventures on the Missouri River and Lake Oahe, and watching for deer at the cabin along with winter skiing in the Black Hills of South Dakota!

Later, after Al’s passing, Shirley moved to Minnesota, where she met even more wonderful friends at Arbor Glen (her treasured Senior Living Community in Lake Elmo, Minnesota). A big thank you to all who made her time there so special!

A Celebration of Life will be planned for later in May in Pierre, SD.

In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to Brighton Hospice, or a hospice care agency or charity of your choice.