Helen M Govin
Helen M. Govin age 86 of Menomonie died Saturday October 6, 2012 at Mayo Clinic Health System in Menomonie.
Helen was born at home on the Sherburne Prairie Farm at Rusk March 20, 1926. She was the daughter of Vernon K. and Lola (Gould) Sherburne and grew up on the farm. Helen graduated from Dunn County School of Agriculture and Domestic Science (Aggie) and attended UW-Eau Claire. Her family was a founding family of Dunn County 4H. Helen was active in 4H as a project leader for dairy, horses and dogs and remained active until she was 75.
Helen married Neil Govin June 25, 1947 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Menomonie. Together, Helen and Neil worked the family farm and raised their family of six.
Helen was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, the Jaycettes, Learning and Retirement, Dunn County Historical Society, Old Settlers and the Wisconsin Guernsey Breeders Association.
Helen is survived by six children- Stephanie (Larry) Govin-Matzat of Milwaukee; Carol Springer, Cynthia (Gary) Welch, Tony (Gail Dunahee) Govin, Tom (Diane) Govin, John (Julie) Govin all of Menomonie; grandchildren-Robbie & Tony Matzat; Julia and Trent Liebich & Erinn Springer; Luke, Travis & Ned Welch; Tyler & Hilary Govin; Kyle & Clayton Govin; five great grandchildren- Owen & Annie, Mason & Garrett Welch; Ilona Steigerzat; honorary grandchildren Cass & Derek Dunahee; a sister, Dorothy (Leroy) Meyer of Lakewood, CA; many nieces, nephews, honorary son John Thibado and many other youths who found their way to the Govin Farm.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Neil in 1985, a brother Dale Sherburne and a sister Frances Anderson.