Helen Wilson Wantz

Helen Wilson Wantz

Helen Wilson Wantz, age 104, of Orchard, Nebraska, passed away on May 20, 2026, at Verdigre, Nebraska. Helen was born on February 13, 1922, on the family farm east of Orchard to Van and Agnes Donahue Bearinger. She lived most of her life in the Orchard area. 

She graduated as Valedictorian of the Orchard Public School Class of 1939. She then attended Wayne State College, earning her teaching certificate. Helen taught elementary school in Belden, Meadow Grove, and Osmond. 

In 1945, she married Loren Wilson, a 1942 graduate of Orchard Public School. While Loren served in the U.S. Army, they lived in Paris, Texas. When he was deployed to the Philippines, Helen returned to Nebraska and resumed teaching. After his discharge, they purchased a farm three miles east of Orchard, where Helen resided until 2024. 

To this union were born three children: Randy (Janae) Wilson, Mark (Kathy) Wilson, and Sally(Randy) Finch. They were blessed with six grandchildren: Nicholas Wilson, Nathan Wilson, Jack Wilson, Marcus Finch, Kaleb Finch, and Dillon Finch. Helen is also survived by nine great- grandchildren.

Helen and Loren enjoyed traveling, attending their children’s and grandchildren’s activities, and spending winters in Arizona. Loren passed away in 1993. In 2001, Helen married James Wantz. They continued to enjoy winters in Arizona until his passing in 2007.

Helen was an active member of the Orchard United Methodist Church and Mount Vernon Chapter #84 of the Order of the Eastern Star. She bowled for more than 50 years with the Bank of Orchard team, played bridge in local card clubs, and was known for her artistic talents. She spent many hours sewing clothes for her family and refinishing furniture.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026 visitation from 1:00-2:00 pm and services at 2:00 pm at the Orchard United Methodist. Memorials may be directed to the family’s preference.