Helen Bruehl, 92

Helen Bruehl, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully at her home Sept. 2, 2024. On this same day, she celebrated her 92nd birthday with her family, eating her favorites: noodles, mussels and black forest cake.

Helen was born to Hans and Helene Schertgens in Koln, Germany, and had two brothers, Haro and Helmut. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Helen was married to Horst Bruehl for 60 years before he passed away in 2014. She is survived by her son, Udo, daughter Peggy, daughter-in-law Marci, son-in-law Michael, grandchildren Krissy (Ethan), Justin, Diana (Matt), Alexis (Josh) and Eric; great-grandchildren Hunter, Madeline, Owen, Carter and Julia.

Helen was known as Oma. She was the family's matriarch, providing a foundation for many generations to follow. She brought immense joy and happiness to the family always being the beacon of life.

Helen and Horst left Germany in 1954 following their marriage to start their new life and family in Canada. When they arrived in Canada via steamship, they only had $17 in their pockets, counting on each other to make a new life for themselves in a new country where they did not speak the language. They loaded the 57 Chevy in 1959, driving their two kids from Montreal to California to start their lives in the United States. Helen lived in Coeur d’Alene for 32 years. They had an amazing journey together, which could be the basis for a wonderful movie of a young couple coming to a new country and struggling, but based on their love, hard work and commitment, they make an amazing life for themselves and their family. There is no greater gift to their legacy than this.

Helen worked hard to learn a new job and became an escrow officer, closing thousands of real estate transactions during her career. This showed her commitment and fortitude.

Helen loved to read, be around people, dancing, singing in the choir and participating in the German Club. She always prided herself in her appearance and how she dressed being the pinnacle of fashion.

She will be greatly missed and forever in many people’s hearts.

Please view and sign Helen's online guestbook at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.