Spenler, Helen E.

Helen E. Spenler, 94, longtime resident of Iowa City, died peacefully at her home Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at First Mennonite Church in Iowa City. There will be a time of visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Monday and will continue following the services at the reception.

Helen's wishes included that at her death she wished to be donated for medical research through the University of Iowa. 

Helen Elizabeth Spenler was born Sept. 19, 1916, in O'Neil, Neb., the daughter of Chris C. and Anna (Beller) Spenler. Helen has lived in Iowa City well over 70 years; she has worked in a number of jobs, but the one that many will remember, the dear lady with the smile behind the counter at Barbara's Bake Shop in downtown Iowa City. She was an icon there for over 35 years! She was a longtime member of First Mennonite Church, she enjoyed quilting, and was one who would help anyone in need, which she and Orpha did often.

Her family includes her dearest friend, Orpha Kempf; brother and his wife, Lenard and Anita Spenler of Iowa City; her sister, Dorothy Doehrman of Iowa City; numerous nieces and nephews and members of Orpha's family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Roy, Vernon and Norman; and a sister, Idella Stahl.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in her memory to Mennonite Central Committee or the First Mennonite Church of Iowa City.

Online condolences may be sent for her family through the web at

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Helen's family and these arrangements.