FORT COLLINS, CO
Helen Margaret Schreckengast, a devoted mother, compassionate real estate broker, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on March 19th, 2023 at Good Samaritan Fort Collins Village. She was 95 years old and bravely battled illness in her final days. Helen was born on May 13, 1927, in Lafayette, Indiana to Cecil Pearl Sheppard and Helen Margaret Sheppard (née Painter). Tragically, her mother passed away due to complications from childbirth shortly after Helen’s birth. In time, her father remarried, and Allie Nancy Sheppard (née Pope) lovingly raised Helen as her own.
Helen is survived by her half-brother, Paul Sheppard of Venice, Florida; three devoted children, Pam Binninger (and her husband, Brett) of Whiteland, Indiana, Jim Schreckengast (and his wife, Connie) of Fort Collins, Colorado, and John Schreckengast of Brighton, Colorado; eleven adoring grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband William Schreckengast, whom she was married to from 1949 until 1990, and her dear daughter Sandy Schulz.
Helen’s childhood was marked by the challenges of growing up in northern Indiana during the Great Depression. Despite the economic hardships her family faced, Helen’s resilient spirit and optimism allowed her to forge enduring friendships that would last a lifetime. Among her closest friends were Pauline, affectionately known as Babe, Mary Louise, and her dear cousin Helen Lavonne. Their shared experiences and unwavering support for one another created bonds that stood the test of time.
After graduating from Huntington North High School, Helen’s family relocated to St. Louis, where her father managed a rubber factory. In her early adulthood, Helen held various jobs that showcased her resourcefulness and determination. One of her positions involved sorting resistors and other electronic components, reflecting her willingness to adapt and learn new skills. Through hard work and perseverance, Helen navigated the challenges of life with grace and a steadfast commitment to her loved ones.
Helen returned to Indiana to marry her love and start a family. Her husband, freshly returned from serving in the Pacific during the war, pursued a law degree. Together, they welcomed two daughters into the world, endured the heartache of two miscarriages, and later celebrated the birth of two sons. Helen’s mantra was always “family is everything,” and she poured her love, devotion, and unwavering support into her husband and children?a pattern she would continue with each new generation of her family.
Once her children were grown, Helen pursued a career in real estate. She obtained her license and eventually earned her broker’s license, founding her own company, Schreck Realty.
Following her divorce, Helen spent quality time with her daughters and grandchildren, helping her youngest daughter through a harrowing battle with cancer and cherishing the company of her lifelong friends.
In the summer of 2000, Helen moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, settling in a cozy condo near her oldest son. This allowed her to become better acquainted with both of her sons’ families and to participate in numerous festive celebrations, including weddings, holidays, birthdays, and the arrival of new babies.
Helen’s boundless love for her family and friends will be dearly missed and cherished forever.
The family will not be holding a funeral service. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s name to the Good Samaritan Society.
