Helen Ruth Klingman

Helen Ruth Klingman, age 84, passed away on August 22, 2026. Helen was born in Dupree, SD, on March 15, 1942, to Harold and Zeta (Strong) Young. Helen grew up on an acreage, just south of Isabel, SD. Her mother worked as a store clerk, and her Father was a mechanic. Helen graduated from Isabel High School in 1960. Helen always had fond memories of Isabel, recalling her enjoyment playing basketball and involvement in church activities. She was often asked to be a soloist and lead the singing at church on Sunday morning, as well as singing at various weddings and funerals.

After graduating from high school, Helen attended Stewards School of Hair Styling in Aberdeen, SD, where she received her beautician's license. While in Aberdeen, she met Roger Klingman on a blind date, and they were married on December 10, 1961. Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to Sacramento, California, where Roger accepted a summer job at the Sacramento Signal Army Depot, and Helen worked part-time as a beautician. In the fall of 1962, Roger accepted a teaching job in Crockett, California. During their time in Crockett, they were blessed with two sons, Brian and Vance. In 1965, the couple returned to the Midwest, living in Britton and Milbank, SD, and over 30 years in Pipestone, MN. While in Pipestone, Helen worked in Medical Records at the Pipestone County Medical Center and as a secretary at Good Samaritan. Helen was a very active member at Christ the King Lutheran Church. Helen loved the Lord and her church family. She shared her musical abilities by singing in the choir, singing solos, and leading the music on Sunday morning. She also served on the Worship Committee and led various Bible Studies. She will always be remembered for her smile and her ability to reach and help those that others may tend to avoid. In 2017, Helen and Roger moved to Sioux Falls to spend their remaining retirement years.

Helen is lovingly remembered by her husband, Roger of Sioux Falls, SD; her children: Brian (Kari) Klingman, Fargo, ND, and Vance Klingman, Eagan, MN; Grandchildren: Trent, Fargo, ND, Katie (Brock) Bartylla, Woodbury, MN; Great Grandchildren: Brantley, Fargo, ND, Kaden & Kullen, Woodbury, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews. Helen is preceded in death by her father, Harold Young; mother, Zeta Lindrman; sisters Margaret and Esther; brothers Daniel, Charles, and Donald.

The family extends a special thanks to Ellie Brooks, who was a special friend and caregiver during Helen’s Hospice Homecare.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Living Word Free Lutheran Church (7901 S Meredith Ave) in Sioux Falls. A visitation will start one hour prior at 10:00 AM, with family present to greet friends.

If you wish to make a memorial donation in place of flowers, the family kindly asks that you make it to the Alzheimer's Association .