HELEN M. BRINKMEIER, 95 FREEPORT - Helen M. Brinkmeier, 95, of Freeport peacefully passed away May 14, 2015, at the Stephenson Nursing Center in Freeport, IL. Helen and her twin brother, Henry, were born on Dec. 8, 1919, in Freeport to Edward and Josephine (Merhant) Blehinger. She attended Freeport schools. Helen married Lloyd Brinkmeier on Feb. 7, 1942, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Pearl City. They farmed near Pearl City for many years until they retired in the 80s; later Lloyd started working for Pearl City Elevator and Helen began working in Freeport for General Casualty Insurance. They retired again around 1990, when they joined a local campers club, and began camping with many friends and relatives. They traveled several times across country in their numerous different campers and motor homes enjoying every minute of travel. Helen was greatly appreciated for the times she helped with the hard work on the farm with Lloyd. She was also active in school activities, singing in the church choir and also keeping books for the church and the West Motel for several years. She is a past President of the Ladies Aid and a member of Mary Martha Circle and helped to plan many church dishes. Helen and Edward were married for 59 1/2 years, until he passed in September 2001. She is survived by her son, Richard and daughter, Dianne (Theo Kruse) Sandell, both of Freeport; grandchildren, Dale (Pam) Sandell, Dennis (Monica) Sandell, both of Kent, Darla (Jeff) Brinkmeier of Pearl City; 6 great-grandchildren; 10 great great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. Helen is preceded by her husband; parents; 4 sisters; and 3 brothers. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, May 18, 2015, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Pearl City. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service at the church. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Garden, beside her husband. Arrangements are being handled by the Offenheiser-Schwarz Funeral Home. Online condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.schwarzfh.com.