HAS A DEATH OCCURRED? WE ARE AVAILABLE 24/7 CALL Minneapolis (612) 200-2777 or duluth (218) 208-0377
HAS A DEATH OCCURRED? WE ARE AVAILABLE 24/7 CALL Minneapolis (612) 200-2777 or duluth (218) 208-0377




Obituary of Helen Havnen
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Helen Havnen (Hoeft) on Friday, January 17th. She passed away peacefully, just as she wished—in her own home, with her daughter, Jessica, by her side and her beloved cat, Maggie Mae, purring and snuggled up beside her. Her spirit is now free to reunite with her husband, Bill; her grandson, Emmett; and her parents, Dolores and Casmere (Cats) Hoeft, who preceded her in death.
Helen cherished the friendships she built over the years—whether through tape-recorded messages, handwritten letters, emails, or Facebook. Her ability to connect with others and share her kindness was a gift, and her loved ones will forever be grateful for the warmth and generosity she brought into their lives.
Helen had an extraordinary love for animals—she was truly an animal savant. From her first cat, Morris, followed by Ginger, Louie, and Maggie Mae, to her beloved dogs Mitzi, Galvin, Max, Twinkie, Kaiser, and Rawly, animals were always an essential part of her life. She cared for everything from fish, hamsters, and parrots to bunnies, monkeys, and even tarantulas. She could recognize each squirrel in her yard by their unique characteristics, naming them all and creating a small community of furry friends. Her love for wildlife became well-known in the neighborhood, as she often purchased grocery carts full of unsalted peanuts to feed her squirrel friends. It became a running joke that wherever she went, she always seemed to leave a peanut behind—whether in her pocket or on the ground.
Helen found true joy in life’s simple pleasures—a peaceful fall evening, a crisp spring morning, or simply sitting quietly outside and watching the world go by. She never needed extravagance; instead, she found contentment in the quiet moments, surrounded by the animals she adored. An introvert at heart, she embraced a life of simplicity and peace, and that was all she ever needed to be truly happy.
One of Helen’s greatest joys was being a grandmother to Oliver. Their bond was filled with laughter and adventure—whether through playful pillow fights, hiding in bushes together, or their special trips to the grocery store and corner shop for treats. She loved him fiercely, and the love they shared will forever be cherished by those who witnessed it.
In keeping with her quiet and humble nature, a small family gathering will be held to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota or the Animal Humane Society, organizations that were dear to her heart.
Helen is survived by her daughter, Jessica Noland (Patrick); her grandson, Oliver; her sister-in-law, Betty Kalvoda (Havnen), and Betty’s husband, Norman Kalvoda; along with many dear friends and the countless wildlife she cared for so deeply.
Our family deeply appreciates your support and love during this time.



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