Helen Marie Barringer featured on kulr8.com
Our dear Mother, Helen Marie Barringer, peacefully passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Lewiston, surrounded by her family. Her 101 years on this earth have left behind a profound legacy of love, resilience, and compassion.
Helen Marie Schonenberger, born to Marguerite Louise and Alfred Joseph Schonenberger on November 16, 1923, in Wisdom, Mont., grew up on a dairy ranch with 12 siblings. She played an essential role on the ranch, milking cows, cooking, haying, and assisting in caring for her family. In June 1942, she married Kenneth J. Thomas, but shortly after, Ken and her three brothers were drafted into World War II. While they were away, Helen moved to Butte, Mont., with her parents and welcomed her daughter, Kenna Marie.
After the war ended in 1945, the family was joyfully reunited when all four men returned home. The family expanded with the birth of Diana Lee and Douglas J. Unfortunately, in 1958, Kenneth tragically lost his life in a work-related accident at the Maiden Rock Phosphate Mine in Melrose, Mont. Helen then relocated to her brother’s ranch in the Bitterroot Valley, south of Darby, Mont.
In January 1961, she married Lyle D. Barringer and embraced three stepchildren, Bill, Karen, and Sheri, alongside the birth of their daughter, Lisa. Together, they operated Barringer Excavating near Darby for 14 years, before eventually settling in Hamilton, Mont., where Lyle passed away in 2004.
A dedicated family woman, Helen cherished spending time with her grandchildren, engaging in activities like bowling, attending senior meals, and playing BINGO with her friend, Pat Byrne. She developed a unique talent for Water Dowsing, using her skills to help locate ideal spots for new well drilling on properties.
In July 2018, Helen transitioned to a studio apartment near her daughter’s house in Lewiston, Idaho, with the assistance of her friend and driver, Mary Lou Gregory. She remained active, attending senior meals in the valley and forming new friendships. Helen was an active member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Hamilton and later joined All Saints Catholic Church in Lewiston.
Helen is survived by her three younger sisters, Shirley Marvin, Daisy Tuss, Paula Olson, her children Kenna (the late Bill) Hugulet, Diana (the late David) Waldo, Doug (LaDonna) Thomas, Lisa (Daniel) Nelson, 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren, and three stepchildren. Helen’s warm and caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.