Helen Ann Friedbauer

Helen Ann Friedbauer, age 74, of Sioux Falls, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Society - Luther Manor. Her Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 Pm, Friday, May 1st, 2026 at the George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory. Visitation will be one hour prior to the Funeral Service at the funeral home, with family present. Interment will be in the Hills of Rest Cemetery, Sioux Falls.

Helen Ann McKnelly was born on June 22, 1951, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Bruce and Hazel (Peterson) McKnelly. She grew up in Sioux Falls alongside three brothers, Marvin, Bruce (Joe) and David. She formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong sense of family and community that stayed with her throughout her life.

Helen was truly the life of the party—known for her vibrant personality, quick wit, and ability to bring joy to any room she entered. She was strong-willed and determined, facing life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Whether through her work, her friendships, or her role within her family, Helen made people feel seen, valued, and loved. Her warm spirit and lively presence will be deeply missed.

Helen dedicated much of her life to her work. She spent more than 20 years at American Western/Carlisle Plastics and worked at Hutchinson Technology and Power Brake and Wheel. She later continued her career at Premier Bankcard, where she worked for more than 20 years, building lasting relationships and earning the respect of those she worked alongside.

In her free time, Helen found joy outdoors. She loved fishing and tending to her small garden, taking pride in the simple beauty of nature. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family. She loved being a grandmother and was over the moon when she became a “GG-Ma,” a role that brought her immense pride and happiness. She also had a love for her two cats Zoey and Baby, and dogs Spanky, Spike, Sam, and Sarah.

Helen is survived by her three brothers: Marvin, Bruce (Joe) and David, two sons, David (Jennifer) Friedbauer of Sioux Falls and Dan Friedbauer of Sioux Falls; two grandchildren, Cody (Samantha) Friedbauer of Avon and Katie Lynn (Kenton) Schulte of Sioux Falls; and seven great-grandchildren, Riley, McKenzie, Addison, and Casey Friedbauer, and Freya, Clary, and Krew Schulte.

She will be greatly missed by the many staff members from Good Samaritan Luther Manor.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Hazel McKnelly.