Helen M. Tammen

Helen Margery (Swenson) Tammen passed away peacefully at Pleasant View Lutheran Home in Ottawa, Illinois on January 8, 2026 at the age of 92. Helen was born to C. Clarence and Margaret (Holman) Swenson on December 11, 1933 in Sandwich, Illinois. She attended Sandwich Township High School, The University of Dubuque for her associates in elementary education and later she completed her bachelors through Western Illinois University.

After meeting William J. Tammen in college in Dubuque, they married on June 10, 1954. Bill and Helen lived in various parts of the country as Bill worked as a Presbyterian pastor. Upon retirement, the two moved to Ottawa, Illinois to be near Helen's family. Helen took great joy in her family, finding her greatest happiness in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was known by all for her humility, hospitality, and servant's heart, always ministering behind the scenes.

Helen is survived by her children, Mark (Anita) Tammen, David (Sally) Tammen, Mary Chamberlin; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Ian) Kastor, Katie (Andy) Jones, Christina (Matt McGrath) Honeysett, Laura Eckwall, Michael (Barbara) Eckwall, Sarah Tammen, Steven Tammen, Sylvia Tammen and Sadie (Alex) Szewczyk; great-grandchildren, Amelia (Christina), James (Christina), and Delaney (Katie). Helen is also survived by her brother, Glenn (Carol) Swenson and her sister-in-law, Patsy Swenson. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, C. Clarence and Margaret (Holman) Swenson; siblings, Burdell Swenson, Charlotte (Art) Johnson, Marian (Kermit) Elleby, Clarion (Jean) Swenson, Carol (Tom) Scidmore; daughter, Carol Eckwall; sons-in-law, Duane Salsman and Guy Chamberlin.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Helen's life during the visitation and funeral service, which will take place on January 17, 2026 at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk, Illinois. The visitation will begin at 11:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers the family, per Helen’s wishes, would appreciate memorials to be directed to Pleasant View Lutheran Home in Ottawa, Illinois or the charity of one's choice. For more information or to sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home

13160 W. Rt 34 ~ P.O. Box 404

Somonauk, IL 60552

815-498-2363