Obituary of Helen Block

  Helen Fredericka Block of Sterling, Illinois, 93. passed away peacefully on June 7, 2024.  Born to George and Anna Ohms on June 1, 1931 in Sterling, Illinois, she was a beacon of light and warmth in the community she loved.

  A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Helen devoted her life to education.  She taught third grade at Sterling Public Schools for over 30 years and also taught additional years at Christ Lutheran School following her retirement where her love of history left an indelible mark on her students.   Her passions were gardening, baking, crossword puzzles and spending time with her family.  She was a life-long member of Messiah Lutheran Church where she sang in choir, bible study, bell choir and a volunteer at CLS thrift store.

   Helen married her soul-mate Fred Block on March 20, 1954.  Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, and together, they raised four remarkable children.

   Helen was predeceased by her parents, her loving husband Fred, her daughter Karen Danekas, son Jon Block and sister Elda Dahlquist.   Helen’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her survivors, daughter Julie (Steven) Pyle of Prior Lake, MN, son Jeff Block (Caterina Ellrick) of Rock Falls, daughter-in-law Debbie Block of Sterling, sister Marie (Frank) Kent-Johns, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

   A celebration of life visitation will be from 10-11AM Friday June 14, 2024 at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1601 Avenue F, Sterling, followed by funeral service. After the service, a luncheon will be held at Messiah Lutheran followed by a burial next to her husband at Our Savior Lutheran Church Cemetery, Sterling, IL.

   In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be made to Messiah Lutheran Church, Sterling.

   Helen will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.  

   Arrangements were completed by Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling.