A new century for Spirit Lake shopkeeper

Helen Campilli reached a new century Feb. 27.

Helen was born on a stormy Friday night in 1925. The storm was so bad that the doctor who delivered her had to stay overnight to wait it out. Such was the beginning of her life among us.

Helen, lovingly known as "Mrs. C," has been a legend in Spirit Lake, making friends with all who come to her Train and Antique Shop. Many will come to chat as she has a way of letting people talk and sometimes even solve their problems while talking to her. She is a great listener and says, "God bless you,” as each customer leaves.

Helen’s husband, Joe, was her faithful partner, and together, they worked their business with Joe often being the one to run the trains and tell stories of his time on the rail. Together, they created an active business for over 30 years. Their love for each other was something that all saw and experienced in coming to their store.

If you ask her what the formula is for a century of life, she will tell you that the Lord has sustained her through all of these years, and she just keeps putting one foot in front of the other and trusts him for her life.

If you come to her shop in Spirit Lake, you will be greeted by a warm smile and a gentle way, which is the lifeblood of her existence. She welcomes one and all, and it is a great experience to meet, talk to and be greeted by her.

Helen Campilli is one in a million.

— Michael Wagner, Helen Campilli's son