Mary Helen French

Mary Helen French, age 97, of Osage, died Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Home in Osage. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday April 13, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Osage. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. at the church on Monday at the church.

Mary Helen was born November 20, 1928, in Meyer, Iowa, the daughter of Matt and Mary (Meurer) Gerhartz. When she was 18, she asked for a job at Fox River Mills, and moved to Osage when she started to work. She was seamer at Fox River and enjoyed her job. On July 15, 1950, she married James E. French at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Meyer. Mary Helen was employed as a food service worker for Osage Community Schools for 27 years. She enjoyed her job at the school, but she especially enjoyed the kids.

Mary Helen was a great homemaker and caretaker. She continued this role until she and Cathy moved to Apple Valley in 2021. In her spare time, she liked gardening, cooking, baking, reading, knitting, and crocheting, playing cards, dominos, walking and quilting. She belonged to Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was very active in the Guild. She also did some traveling with friends.

Mary Helen is survived by her daughter, Cathy French of Stacyville; son-in-law, David Krietemeyer, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James French in 1989; her daughter, Diann Krietemeyer; three sons, Robert French, John French and Gary French: her grandson, John Krietemeyer; sisters, Mildred (Ralph) Thome, Kathleen (Joseph) Freund and Cynthia (Jack) Dailey.

Mary Helen was known for her kindness and generosity with no complaints despite all the family tragedies. She will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers or donations, may be given to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation on your own accord in memory of Mary Helen French due to lack of surviving family members.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements.