Helen was born December 6, 1944, to Hans and Gina (Storland) Olsen, at her “aunt’s place about a mile and a half out of Britton, SD,” as she once wrote in a book. She was the baby of the family, growing up with her two brothers, Harold and Harlan, whom she adored. Helen lived a simple life with her family in Hillhead, South Dakota, in a four room house without electricity or indoor plumbing. She attended a country school and remembered her childhood fondly, knowing they didn’t need everything to be happy.

Helen and Harry Salgren were united in marriage on August 14, 1964, at the pastor’s house in Webster, South Dakota. In April 1965, they moved to Clare, Iowa, before settling in Milaca, Minnesota, in 1971, where they made their home and raised their three children, Eileen, Elaine, and Dennis.

Helen’s eldest daughter, Eileen, married Mark Hoffman, and together they made their home in Colorado, raising their three sons, Michael, Ronald, and Justin. It was always a treat when the Hoffmans came to Minnesota. They arrived in a big van, bringing plenty of chaos along with them, and Helen looked forward to every bit of it. Eileen passed away in 2004, and Mark also preceded Helen in death.

Helen’s second daughter, Elaine, married Patrick Johnson, and they raised their daughters, Jessa and Jenna, in Milaca, where the girls spent much of their childhood at Grandma Helen’s house.

Jessa married Joel, whom Helen once gave a glowing review in writing: “Jessa is really a lucky girl to get such a nice guy.” They now make their home in Montana with their three young children, Jace, Jordy, and Jayley.

Jenna married Corey Free, and together they are raising their three girls, Everly, KayLeigh, and Verity, in Foley. Helen loved the little redheaded girls, especially that Kitten. She really liked “that one.” Jenna had the pleasure of taking Grandma out to her favorite places to eat, outings Helen truly enjoyed. “That Jenna is a funny one,” Helen would say.

Her son, Dennis, lives in Milaca with his significant other, Fran, and could be counted on for a visit with his ma every Tuesday. His family includes Nathaniel, who we all secretly know was Grandma’s favorite; Maddie, who married Alex Hiltner and is expecting their first baby; Levi; and Emily, Helen’s youngest grandchild, whom Grandma called “Mae” and never missed a chance to brag about: “So pretty, that girl.” Dennis’s family also includes his son Nick Klofstad, Nick’s wife Ashley, and their two sons.

Helen enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: going for walks, trips to Teal’s grocery store, a good puzzle, a game of Rummy 500, a hot cup of coffee, and receiving visitors. Journaling was a big part of her life, and she faithfully documented her days, leaving behind everyday moments and memories in her own words. She also made all of her own Christmas cards, and those lucky enough to receive one looked forward to seeing what she would create the following year. She loved bald eagles and absolutely adored animals, probably more than people.

Her favorite flowers were yellow roses, her favorite song was “Let It Be,” and her favorite meals included chicken and wild rice, potatoes, gravy, and bread.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Harold and Harlan Olsen; husband, Harry Salgren; mother and father in law, Harriet and Earl Salgren; daughter, Eileen Hoffman, and son in law, Mark Hoffman; and grandson, Oscar Johnson.

A celebration of Helen’s life will be held at the Milaca Legion on November 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. All are welcome to gather, share stories, and remember her with love and a little laughter.

When asked about her greatest rewards in life, Helen wrote: “My greatest reward was I had a real good dad and mom, I had a good childhood. Even if we didn’t have money to have everything it was fine. I believe I learned a lot from that, I don’t need everything to be happy. So that’s my best reward. Also my two brothers.”

Helen is now in a better place with her greatest rewards.

Whenever you see a bald eagle, think of Helen. And in her honor, make your bed each morning. She always did, right up to the very end.