Helen Van Slooten, age 102 of Redwood Falls, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at River Valley Health & Rehabilitation Center in Redwood Falls. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Redwood Valley Funeral Home. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Redwood Falls Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, family prefers memorials to CentraCare Hospice. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Helen Irene (Castle) Van Slooten was born January 16, 1924 in North Redwood to Fay and Hattie (Taubert) Castle and was baptized at the Church of the New Testament in Canby. She attended school at North Redwood – Redwood Falls High School. In June 1942, Helen was united in marriage to Andy Van Slooten in Redwood Falls. Together, they raised 4 sons. Helen went back to school at 35 years old to earn her diploma and graduated with her oldest son David in 1963. She worked for the Redwood Gazette as a reporter. Helen was a great saver and taught others how to save money by using coupons and refunding. She was a member of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for 20 years. Helen took great pride in her public speaking through the MADD impact panel. She loved the Redwood County Fair, winning many ribbons for her flowers and baked goods. In her quiet time, Helen enjoyed writing and reading.
Helen is survived by her sons: Steven (Heidel) of Little Falls and Ronald (Colleen) of Willmar; daughters-in-law: Mary Van Slooten of Richfield & Gail Van Slooten of Sartell; grandchildren: Randy, Jamie & Tony Van Slooten; Heather Walsh, Hans Van Slooten & Claire Bailey; Chad Van Slooten, Kristie Thomas, & Ryan Van Slooten; and Travis & Jeff Van Slooten; 22 great-grandchildren; special friends: Gina Ringeisen & Maureen Gano; and many other relatives & friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Andy, sons Dave &Vilas and siblings Lillian, Donald, Arthur, Viola, Harold, Esther, Clara, Kenneth, Floyd, Alfred, Arlene & Cheryl.
