Helen Shimek

Helen Marie (Klesel) Shimek, 87, of Schulenburg, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024 at Oak Manor Nursing Home after a lengthy illness.

Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, followed by burial in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Douglas Klesel, Travis Wagner, David Wagner, James Fietsam and Raymond Shimek. Rosary was recited at the church on Jan. 9 at 10:30 a.m., led by Kenneth Berger.

Born in Schulenburg on Feb. 18, 1936, she was the daughter of Henry and Martha (Wagner) Klesel. She graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1954. When Helen graduated from high school, she wanted to become a nurse. She was living at home, helping her father on the farm. Dr. Lyman E. Ihle had a practice in Schulenburg and she asked if he needed any help, but he already had a nurse. Months later, the doctor asked Helen’s mom if she was still looking for a job. Her mom and grandmother told her about the job behind her father’s back because he wanted her to stay on the farm. She went and got the job with no nursing background. That was the beginning of a 55-year career. Later, she worked for Medical Associates which became Schulenburg Community Clinic. She retired March 5, 2010 and then enjoyed gardening with her husband, Milton. They donated thousands of pounds of vegetables to the Schulenburg Area Food Pantry.

She married her husband, Milton Shimek at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Oct. 19, 1958. After their marriage, they lived in Hallettsville and then moved to Schulenburg. She was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters and Altar Society.

Survivors include a son, Randy Shimek and wife Dawn of Schulenburg; a brother, John Klesel and wife Georgie of Houston; a niece, Karen Klesel Milligan; and a nephew, Douglas Klesel.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Milton Shimek; son, Alan Shimek; and parents, Henry and Martha Klesel.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.