Ernest "Ernie" Helander

Memorial service for Ernest “Ernie” Raymond Helander, 69, of Palo will be 11 am Monday, October 24, 2016 at the Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora with Pastor Clyde Harvey officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be in the Rauha Cemetery at a later date. Ernie died Monday, October 17, 2016 at his home. He was born on February 12, 1947 to Raymond and Terttu (Kilpela) Helander in Biwabik. Ernie grew up in Lakeland and graduated from the Biwabik High School, Class of 1965. Following school he worked road construction. On June 6, 1970 Ernie was united in marriage to MaryAnn Peterson. The couple made their home in Palo where Ernie owned and operated the Helander Sand and Gravel Company. He enjoyed working in his garage, taking country drives to visit neighbors and friends, and restoring classic cars. Ernie was a charter member of the “Simple Brothers”. Survivors include his wife of 46 years: MaryAnn; two sons: John (Shannon) Helander of Hutter and Eric (Hannah) Helander of Mt. Iron; six grandchildren: Austin, Zach, Leighton, Jasper, Tiernan, and Cormac Helander; two sisters: Donna Loomis of Casper, WY and Diane Helander of Finland, MN; two brothers: Randy Helander of Duluth and Rick (Bonnie) Helander of Saginaw, MN; one cousin: Linda Helander of New Mexico; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and cousin, Shirley Helander Sundstrom.