STEELEVILLE – Gertrude Helmers, 90, of Steeleville, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Southeast, Cape Girardeau, MO.

She was born on July 8, 1936, in Evansville, IL, to William C. and Thea (Wagener) Koester. Gertrude married Edgar W. Helmers on April 22, 1961, in Red Bud, IL, he preceded her in death on October 22, 2013. She was a Homemaker and a Secretary for St. Peter’s Church. Gertrude was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church – Wine Hill, Steeleville, IL, Home Extension and WELCA; she also volunteered at the Braile Center in Chester, IL. Gertrude enjoyed playing cards with family and friends.

Gertrude is survived by her son, John (Kathy) Helmers of Steeleville, IL, her grandson, Eli Craig, her brother, Richard (Geralyn) Koester of Wildwood, MO, her sister-in-law, Pat Koester of Magnolia, TX, several nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Gertrude was also preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Robert Koester.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, 11:00 am, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church – Wine Hill, Steeleville, IL, with Vicar Anne Terry officiating. Burial to follow at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, Steeleville, IL. Visitation will be Saturday morning, July 25, 2026, where friends may call from 9:00 am until time of service at the church. Memorials may be given to St. Peter’s Cemetery Fund or General Fund, and can be mailed to Wilson’s Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288.