Helen Jane Krause

Helen Jane Krause, 88, of Greeley, passed away on January 24, 2025, at Fairacres Manor, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in April of 1936 in Sturgis, SD, to Jacob H. and Stena Isabelle (Lien) Bauer. Helen spent her early years in Sturgis before her family moved to Hettinger, ND, where she graduated from high school.

In 1954, Helen married her high school sweetheart, Ronald Z. Swanson, and together they built a life in Pierre, South Dakota, where they started their family. As their family grew, so did their ambitions, leading them to relocate to Denver, Colorado, in search of new opportunities and a fresh start. Eventually, they made their way to Greeley, where they put down lasting roots. Later in life, Helen met Robert Krause, who became a loving and devoted husband. Through every move and transition, Helen created a welcoming and loving home, always ensuring that her family was surrounded by love, laughter, and strong values.

Helen had a diverse and fulfilling career that reflected her hardworking and compassionate nature. She spent the 1970s and 1980s working in real estate, where she developed a strong work ethic, keen attention to detail, and a natural ability to connect with people. Despite her success in real estate, Helen felt a deep calling to care for others and decided to pursue a career in nursing. She returned to school in Loveland to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), a decision that perfectly aligned with her nurturing spirit. Helen was a caring and devoted nurse who dedicated her career to geriatrics, working in nursing homes where she provided comfort, care, and companionship to countless patients. As a charge nurse, she was well respected and deeply loved by both her colleagues and those in her care. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with. Even in her final days, former co-workers visited her in hospice, sharing heartfelt stories with her family about the difference she made in their lives and the lives of her patients. Her legacy of compassion and service will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

For over 20 years, Helen lived at Birchwood, where she was a beloved presence and cared for everyone around her. She was a devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church, she generously volunteered her time, often helping in the office by folding bulletins. Helen enjoyed reading, watching movies, writing short stories, crafting, playing the slot machines, cheering on the Denver Nuggets, and playing pinochle and mahjong. She also loved traveling, especially her cherished trip to Norway with her sisters.

Most of all, Helen loved her family with all her heart. She cherished every moment spent with them, whether it was celebrating holidays, gathering for special occasions, or simply enjoying everyday conversations. She never missed a birthday, milestone, or opportunity to make her loved ones feel special. Helen’s warmth, kindness, and unconditional love will forever be treasured by those she held dear.

Helen is survived by her children: Michael (Loretta) Swanson, Patrick (Nancy) Swanson, Timothy (Sue) Swanson, Tamera (Jeff Oyler) Swanson, and Kelly (Heidi) Swanson; her stepchildren: Wesley (Melly) Krause, David (Lori) Krause, and Lee (Sheri) Krause; 17 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; her sister Donna Hoffman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, both of her husbands, and her sisters Jeanette Rogers and Lavonne Bauer.

Helen’s family will hold a private family service at Adamson. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to:

• HealthWell Foundation (https://secure.healthwellfoundation.org/forms/donate) with the purpose of Oncology-Multiple Myeloma-Medicare Access
• UCHealth NOCO Foundation (https://www.uchealthnocofoundation.org/donate/) to support Cancer Patient Assistance in Weld County

Helen was deeply cherished by her family, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She was the cornerstone of her family, offering unwavering love, wisdom, and support to those around her. Her absence leaves a profound void, but the beautiful memories she created will continue to bring comfort and inspiration to those who were blessed to know her. She will be missed beyond measure, but her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of her family forever.

Condolences may be shared at AdamsonCares.com.