Helen C. Owen

Helen Catherine Owen, age 87, of Hugo, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026.

Helen was born on April 25, 1938, in Royalton, Minnesota, the daughter of Paul and Mary (Czech) Kroll. She was raised with strong values of faith, perseverance, and devotion to family—values she carried with her throughout her life.

Helen dedicated her entire career to Burlington Northern Railroad, where she worked faithfully in the freight claims department until her retirement in 2000. Her steady work ethic and quiet determination earned her the respect of colleagues and friends alike. She believed in showing up, working hard, and doing things the right way.

Though she built a long and successful career, Helen’s heart always belonged to her farm, the place she simply called home. She found joy in tending her garden, hunting, fishing, and embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Time spent with her family was her greatest treasure. Whether gathered around a table, outdoors in the fresh air, or sharing stories and laughter, Helen’s gentle presence made every moment warmer.

She was known for her kindness, her easy smile, and her calm, steady spirit. Helen had a way of making others feel welcome and cared for, offering quiet encouragement and unconditional love.

Helen is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Mary Kroll; her beloved son, Terrence Owen; and 13 siblings.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Richard (Darla) Owen and Julie (Kevin) Essen; her grandchildren, Christopher, Owen, Chad (Ann) Senart, Jamie (Tony) Peltier, and Nathan Essen; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Madison, Jameson, Christian, Alex, Vayda, Zoey, and Noah. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Kroll, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Encore of North Branch and St. Croix Valley Hospice for their incredible care, compassion, and support during Helen’s final days.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at St. Genevieve Parish-St. John Site, 14383 Forest Blvd. North, Hugo, Minnesota. The family will greet friends one hour prior to Mass at the church. Private interment will take place at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the church.