Helga Goebel
January 11, 2019
Helga Anna Meta (Stegmann) Goebel was born December 22, 1937 in Langen, Germany. She was the daughter of Wilhem and Friedaricke (Thies) Stegmann. Helga was a “war bride,” who married David Goebel and moved to the United States 60 years ago. She worked at Methodist Hospital for many years, then became a greeter at the Historical Building. Helga collected friends everywhere she went. She was very stubborn, but loving. Helga will be remembered fondly for having a sweet nature with an ornery streak. She was an avid lover of pets and treated hers like her children. As a young lady, she traveled the world and impacted everyone she met. Helga believed in everyone, no matter what. Throughout her life, she never complained and her strong faith carried her through.
Helga passed away peacefully at Taylor House Hospice on Friday, January 11, 2019. She was 81 years old.
Left to cherish her memory are her brother, Rudolf “Rudy” Runne, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilhem and Friedaricke Stegmann and brother, Uwe Stegmann
According to Helga’s wishes, she will be cremated and there will be no formal funeral services held.
In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that contributions be directed to Animal Lifeline of Iowa in loving memory of Helga.
Heartfelt thanks to Taylor House and UnityPoint Home Healthcare for their respectful and loving care of Helga.
Denise Rice
02/10/2019
I am saddened by hearing of Helga's passing. She was a very special person and friend that I will always love and miss. R.I.P. My Dear Helga.
Dee Bowers
01/21/2019
I've known my dear friend Helga for many , many years. We had laughs together, cries together. I truly will miss are talks. Her last words to me , we're I love you. She never got to come and see my house on the lake, but I know she's looking down on it now. Love you Helga.
Sarah Macht
01/14/2019
Helga was a wonderful, happy person. She was such a friendly bright presence at the Historical Building. She loved to talk about her pets and told us stories about her life. Mein herzlichstes Beileid.
Walter Ladd
01/14/2019
I had the great pleasure of working with and knowing Helga at the State Historical Building,
I would occasionally see her walking her dog after she left the State Historical Building and I would stop to talk to her. And she would tell me about her fur children and she would ask about mine. Two of which were adopted from her after she took them in as strays.
My condolences to her family and other friends.
Kim Wilson
01/12/2019
I am deeply saddened by Helga's passing. She was a lovely lady who I will miss tremendously.