Vanelda “P’nuts” Rose Helgerson
Vanelda “P’nuts” Rose Helgerson, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, was called home to the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Marshfield, at the age of 69. Surrounded by her loving family, she entered into the peaceful presence of Jesus.
Her family will forever cherish her kindness, compassion and the unwavering love she shared, with all who knew her.
Born July 30, 1956, to Pearl and Lionel Klein, P’nuts was the seventh of eight children, raised on the family farm in the Township of Ruby. Her early years shaped her into a hardworking, kind and steady-hearted woman – qualities that would define her throughout her life.
After graduating from Holcombe High School in 1974, P’nuts married her high school sweetheart, Terry Helgerson, Nov. 2, 1974.
Her working years were spent at the Cornell Area Care Center, where she worked for seven years, along with 21 years employed by Northwestern Bank, and 31 years, as the secretary/treasurer for the Cornell Cemetery.
During their 51 years of marriage, Terry and P’nuts built a life centered on faith, love and shared joy. They delighted in exploring the beauty of God’s creation, from the waterfalls of Bond Falls, Mich., to multiple National Parks in Utah, Glacier and Yellowstone.
Their most recent adventure took them across the country to Maine, creating many memories and laughter together.
Whether attending state fair concerts, enjoying rodeos, making Sunday trips to Dairy Queen, or taking quiet drives together, Terry and P’nuts treasured the simple pleasures of being side by side in God’s world, and enjoying His creation.
P’nuts and Terry lovingly raised three children: Darren, Durenda and Adam.
Their home was known for warmth and hospitality, and was an open door to friends, neighbors, their children’s friends and later, significant others. P’nuts especially loved the Christmas season, and the joy it brought to her heart and home.
She particularly enjoyed hosting the annual Christmas Eve gathering after the church service, welcoming family and friends, with love and a heartfelt celebration of Christ’s birth.
Some of the fondest memories with P’nuts and her family, were made during Memorial Day and Labor Day gatherings, at their home. Children, grandchildren and extended family, would come together for a weekend of laughter, shared meals, outdoor games and simple joys, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Whether family by blood or by heart, everyone who entered her home was met with the same love and generosity, feeling truly welcomed and valued.
Her grandchildren were among her greatest joys. She supported them wholeheartedly, by celebrating their accomplishments, listening to their stories and encouraging them, with a gentle and loving spirit. To them, she was a steady presence – faithful, warm and deeply devoted.
She created memories her grandchildren will carry forever, from moments of quiet guidance and prayer, to adventures filled with laughter and happiness. Some of their favorite memories were playing water balloons, visiting Irvine Park and the National Eagle Center, and playing baseball, even though Grandma wasn’t “very athletic.”
P’nuts also spoiled them by making their favorite meals and treats, and letting them eat whatever they wanted, when they wanted. Each grandchild felt seen, cherished and valued, and her influence will remain with them always.
She nurtured her whole family, with quiet acts of love and generosity, often expressing her care, through cooking and baking. Preparing favorite meals and special treats was her way of showing love.
Her love was unwavering, her wisdom a guiding light and her home always a place of comfort, acceptance and joy.
P’nuts will be remembered for her selfless heart, her gentle and steady presence, and the way she made everyone around her feel truly loved.
She is survived by her husband – Terry; her children – Darren (Christen) Helgerson and Adam (Andrea) Helgerson; her son-in-law – Jesse Werner; her treasured grandchildren – Bryce, Isaac and Elijah Helgerson, Kadyn and Kyndra Werner, and Landon and Jeremiah Helgerson; her siblings – Peggy (Bob) Jensen, Shirley Meece, Penny Rush, Karren Meece, Lionel (Merilu) Klein and Dan (Terri) Klein; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents – Lionel and Pearl Klein; her daughter – Durenda Werner; and her sister – Pearl Raatz.
Visitation is at Borton-Leiser Funeral Home in Cornell, Friday, Dec. 12, from 4-7 p.m. Visitation is also at New Hope Assembly of God in Cornell, Saturday, Dec. 13, from 1-2 p.m., followed by a celebration of life service, from 2-3 p.m.
Jesus invites us to serve with love and faithfulness, and P’nuts answered that call fully. Her life of love and devotion touched everyone around her. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but her memory will forever live on in our hearts.
“Be still and know that I am God.” (P’nuts’ favorite verse) Psalm 46:10 Online condolences may be expressed at www.bortonleiserfuneralhome. com. Borton-Leiser Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Cornell, is assisting the family. 177486
