Helen E. Lisowski
Our dear mother, Helen Esther Lisowski, 95, passed away Friday, January 16, 2026. She was born July 7, 1930, in Blair, to Olaf and Selma (Knudtson) Hauge. To many, she was a friend and neighbor, but to us, she was the matriarch, the anchor and the heart of our family.
Ninety-five years is a remarkable journey. When Mom was born, the world was a very different place. She grew up in the Great Depression, lived through World War II and 17 presidencies. She shared many great times with her brothers: Palmer, Donnie and John, and her sister, Grace, always having a cup of coffee ready along with a sweet snack. Anytime they needed someone to lean on, she was there for them with open arms. Oh how we wish that table could talk. Throughout her life, her character remained steadfast. She enjoyed the simple things in life, like going for a car ride, visiting with neighbors and friends, a quick $20 visit to the casino and eating chicken drummies and pasta salad, as long as it didn’t have corn! In her younger days, she even enjoyed a good Seven-Seven. She was kind, witty and yes, even a little bit (sometimes a lot of bit) stubborn.
Helen lived with purpose, grace and an unwavering commitment to her family. After marrying Jerome Lisowski, November 25, 1953, they raised nine children. Together, they instilled an incredible work ethic in them, always telling them if they wanted something, then they would have to work for it.
While Bobby and Jeanine Hauge and Mary Mathis left her too soon, she was still blessed to enjoy many moments with Terry and Jill Lisowski, Patty and Jeff Unger, Randy and Amy Lisowski, Mike and Tracy Lisowski, Rochelle and Mark Vlaj, Roxy and Craig Wedwick, Kevin and Lori Lisowski, and son-in-law, John Mathis. Even though Mike was her favorite (we’ve all come to accept it), she loved all of us unconditionally.
One of her greatest joys in life was spending time with her grandchildren: Kristie, Jon, Kimberly, Katie, Josh, Jordan, Jenna, Cassie, Greg, Garrett, Stephanie, Alex, Maggie, Morgan, Abbey and Nathan. Whether it was learning to polka in the living room, sneaking cookies from the cupboard or sharing their latest antics and endeavors, she loved and supported them wholeheartedly and without judgement. Her legacy will live on with her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchild.
Helen had a lasting impact on her brother-in-law, Joe Lisowski, and her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brothers; as well as in-laws: Laverne and Mary Lisowski, Darlene Lisowski, Evelyn Kammerer and Mary Hauge.
Upon taking her last breath, the words that we’re sure she would have uttered were, “Well, I got dat done den.” Rest easy, Grandma Helen. You were a good woman and you lived a good long life.
Memorial services will be held Friday, January 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., at Blair Lutheran Church West (Zion) with burial in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, both in Blair. Pastor Chris Sesvold will officiate.
Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Memorials may be designated to the Blair Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.
