Helen M. Parnell

Helen (Holmes) Parnell, 98, of Chinook, passed away Friday, June 13, 2025. Helen was born January 9, 1927, to Harold and Mildred (Halvorson) Holmes. Helen attended Chinook High School where she was active in many activities, including student council. Helen graduated from Chinook High School in 1945. Following graduation, she worked at the Blaine County courthouse.

On February 22, 1947, Helen married William V. Parnell of Harlem. Bill and Helen lived on their farm west of Harlem until Bill passed away on March 15, 2002. They had one daughter, Patricia E. "Patty" Parnell Schwarz. Patty died September 25, 1989.

Helen is survived by her granddaughter, Rebecca (Duane) Hendricks, brothers John Holmes and Richard (Renae) Holmes, sister-in-law Audrey Parnell, son-in-law Roger Schwarz, and great-grandsons, Andrew Hendricks and Cody Hendricks, and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, daughter Patty, brother Robert Holmes, and sisters Marie Rindy, Arlene Holmes, and Anna Sattleen.

A committal service was conducted at the Harlem Cemetery on June 23, 2025. Helen was laid to rest between her husband and her daughter.

A memorial service will be held July 19, 2025, at 11 o'clock, at the Presbyterian Church in Chinook, with a luncheon to follow.