Helen Ruth Billing

Helen Ruth (Webb) Billing died on May 10, 2015 in Park Rapids, Minnesota after a long, eventful life She was born in St. Paul to Frederick W. Webb and Laura S. Larsen on November 2, 1924. She was married to Oliver Donald Billing in St. Paul on June 1, 1947. Music was a constant theme in Helen's life. She received both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in organ performance from the University of Minnesota, and continued her education in organ at the University into her eighties. She put this knowledge to good use as organist and choir director at several churches in St. Paul and Park Rapids, and by giving piano lessons to legions of students, including some of her own children. Another love of Helen's was the property she and Don bought on Big Sand Lake outside of Park Rapids, which they first visited in 1953. Beginning in 1967, she and Don, with the help of their children, rented cabins under the name, Hurd's Acres Resort, until retiring from the resort business in 1997. Her love for the property and the lake led her to move permanently to the Park Rapids area five years ago. Helen is survived by her daughters, Helen Jensen (Ryan) and Katherine Billing; her sons, Donald (Patricia), David (Mary), Mark, Michael (Lynn), Peter (Peggy), Timothy (Millie), Matthew (Debi), Eric (Barb), and Christopher; her many grandchildren and great grandchildren; her sister, Dorothy Holmes, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Don, two infant children, and her parents. The family wishes to thank those who cared for Helen in her last years, especially daughter Kati and the staffs at Heritage Cottages and Hospice of the Red River Valley. A funeral service for Helen will be held at First English Lutheran Church of Dorset, Minnesota on May 23, 2015 at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning one hour earlier. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Roseville. In her life, Helen enjoyed growing flowers more than cutting them. So in lieu of flowers, the family suggests that those who wish to make a memorial make a donation to Heritages Cottages, Park Rapids through the Friends of Heritage Living Center; Hospice of the Red River Valley, Fargo, ND; or a charity of the giver's choice. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Jones-Pearson Funeral Home, Park Rapids. To view the video tribute or to leave on line condolences please visit www.jonespearson.com "Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming - WOWWhat a ride!" This sums up Helen's outlook on life well.