Obituary of Helena G. Barber

Age 93, long-time resident of Mendota Heights, passed away February 18 after a short illness. Born July 29, 1922 in Vienna, Austria, to parents Karl and Maria Ertl. She lived through the tumult of World War II in Europe as a young woman, later building a career as a high fashion model, and appearing in events all over Western Europe in the early 50’s. A one-time Fashion Queen of Austria, she was selected as Miss Immigration upon arriving in New York City in 1954. While visiting her sister in Rapid City, SD, she met her husband Jack, an engineer with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. Moving to the Twin Cities in the early 60’s, they raised 3 children. Helen and Jack were active in the community, loved to travel, and enjoyed playing golf (which she learned for him) and ballroom dancing (which he learned for her). A very special individual known for her elegance, sense of style and love of all things beautiful, she will be greatly missed. Preceded in death by parents, beloved sister Trude and brother-in-law Art LaCroix, Helen is survived by Jack, her devoted husband of 61 years, daughter Jacqueline, sons Lance and John (Cathy), grandsons, Karl and Jake, nephew Mike LaCroix (Sally), as well as relatives in Vienna, Austria, and many friends. Special thanks to staff and caregivers of the Commons on Marice in Eagan, for their dedicated care and friendship these last few years. A memorial service celebrating Helen’s life is planned for Saturday April 30, 11AM, at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 1575 Charlton Street, W. St. Paul, 55118. Visitation 1 hour before, at the church.