Helen Lou Monter, 86, a long-term resident of the San Luis and Greenhorn Valleys, passed away Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, in Colorado Springs, Colo., following a stroke.

Helen was preceded in death by daughter Sandra Lynne, husband Merlin Jesse, parents Martin ‘Mig’ and Lucille Klinger, and son-in-law Dick Johnson.

Helen is survived by her children: Shirley Johnson of Nevada, Mo., John Monter of Lakeside, Calif., Jack Monter (Jill) of Pueblo West, Colo., Susan Wilson (Todd) of Gallup, N.M., and Sharon Monter of Nevada, Mo.; grandchildren: Sean Johnson, Roy Johnson (Nicole), Courtney Monter, Whitney Monter, Talisha Brownell (James), Shayna Guardian (Raymond), Tiana Heppner (Sam), Sheldon Wilson (Hannah), Makayla Raseta (Josh), Lane Fringer, Shaelynne Fringer, Marshall Fringer; and great-grandchildren: Gabe Bailey, Daniel Bailey, Liam Johnson, Brooklynn Brownell, Adeline Wilson, Alila Guardian, Remington Raseta, Kimber Raseta, Oaklynn Fringer. She is also survived by her sister Karolyn Bradshaw and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Helen epitomized unconditional love and service to everyone who knew her. She loved God, her family, and her friends. She ended every communication with, “God Bless!” The final words to her children were, “I am so blessed by God!”

You may share thoughts or memories of Helen Lou (Mom) at: [email protected]. If you prefer, cards can be sent to 302 Ciniza Ct. Gallup, NM 87301. If you would like to share your address with the family, do so at: https://www.postable.com/HelenLouMonterMemorial.

A graveside service for the family will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, in Monte Vista, Colo. Following, the family invites you to join them for a "Celebration of Life" in her honor at the Movie Manor, 2830 U.S. Hwy 160 Monte Vista, Colo., from 1-2 p.m. Come celebrate her life and share your memories with us.