Kathy Helle 77, beloved wife of 56 years to Marty, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and loyal friend, passed away surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, August 10, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kathy will be 10:30 am Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Kathy dedicated much of her life to caring for her home and raising her three children, who were always the center of her world. Alongside her husband, Marty, she helped build Helle Construction, supporting the family business through years of hard work, dedication, and commitment. Later in life, she enjoyed working at Sue’s Hallmark and the Coach House, where she especially loved visiting with customers and coworkers and forming lasting friendships.

Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her seven grandchildren. She rarely missed a game, recital, or activity, and nothing made her happier than watching the people she loved do what they loved. She loved cheering them on from the stands, celebrating every milestone, big or small. No matter where they were, everyone knew Grandma was there when they heard her signature “Whoot! Whoot!” ringing through the crowd. Her grandchildren will forever treasure those memories and the unconditional love, encouragement, and unwavering support she gave so freely.

Whether gathered around the card table, at a family celebration, or simply spending time with those she loved, Kathy found joy in laughter, conversation, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Kathy will be remembered for her caring heart, her unwavering devotion to her family, and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed, loved, and supported. Her kindness, encouragement, and generous spirit touched countless lives and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jeremy Helle; her parents, Alvin and Mildred Schlichte; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vernon and Mildred Helle; her brother-in-law, Don “Pooch” Ament; her sister-in-law, Patti Bell; and her nephew, TJ Kelleher.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Marty; her children, Jennifer and Dan Smith, Chris and Michelle Helle, and Nick Helle; her seven cherished grandchildren, Cole and Gabbi Smith, Olivia, Andrew, and Ben Helle, and Gracelynn and Isabella Helle; her sisters, Dianne and Ted Kluesner, Margie Ament, Deb and Loras Digmann, and Ann and Todd Kelleher; her brothers, Dan and Mary Schlichte, Jim and Susie Schlichte, Pat and Donna Schlichte, John and Kelly Schlichte, and Jeff and Theresa Schlichte; her sisters-in-law, Doris and Wayne Ries, Donna and Gary Burds, and Lori and Tim Kramer; her brothers-in-law, Dave Bell, Ron and Judeane Helle, and Tom and Gail Helle; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will deeply miss her presence, her encouragement, and her unmistakable “Whoot! Whoot!” from the sidelines.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Cristina (In-Home Care Connection), Dr. Ott, Holly, Dr. Ries, Dr. Wagner and the University of Iowa team, the staffs of MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center and MercyOne Cancer Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Home Instead for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided throughout Kathy’s courageous battle with cancer. Their kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment not only cared for Kathy but also brought comfort, guidance, and strength to her family during an incredibly difficult journey.

The family would also like to extend their deepest appreciation to the many family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones who walked alongside us throughout Kathy’s journey. Whether you offered prayers, prepared meals, made visits, helped with caregiving, ran errands, sent messages, provided encouragement, or simply sat with us during difficult moments, your love and support meant more than words can express. Every act of kindness, no matter how big or small, helped carry our family through this challenging time. We will be forever grateful for the compassion, generosity, and love you showed Kathy and our entire family.

Though Kathy will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family will live on in all who knew and loved her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with her beloved son, Jeremy, and that the love they shared endures beyond this life. Her family will forever carry her love in their hearts, and whenever they hear a joyful cheer from the sidelines, they will always smile, remembering Grandma’s unmistakable “Whoot! Whoot!”

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Kathy’s memory by spending time with those you love, supporting a local hospice or cancer organization, or simply extending the same kindness, encouragement, and compassion that Kathy so freely shared with others.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Kathryn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.