Helen Pearl Millen, 97, of Springfield, MO passed away Monday, April 1, 2024. Helen was born September 2, 1926, to Thore and Pearl Arneson in Tacoma, WA. Helen's father immigrated from Valdres Norway, and she was proud of her Norwegian heritage.

As a young woman in the 1950's, Helen served for four years on the mission field in Liberia, Africa. She married Herbert Millen in 1959 and they served as missionaries in Japan where their children, Ruth and Jon, were born.

After moving back to the states in 1964, she settled in their hometown of Tacoma, Washington. In 1976, Helen's family moved to Anchorage, Alaska where Herb got a job with the civil service. In 1982, Herb and Helen retired to their cabin at Lake Bay, WA.

Helen had the gift of hospitality. She loved to make pies, scones, Krumkake, as well as other Norwegian cookies and desserts. She loved to entertain family and friends and always wanted her guests to feel comfortable in her home. She would often send leftovers and desserts home with her guests to enjoy later.

Helen was always active in her church as a Women's Ministry Coordinator, Missionette Director, and Children's Church leader with Herb. Helen loved the Lord and was always talking about going to heaven. While living in the nursing home, she sang and led hymns with the other residents because she knew the words. She often prayed openly with others and privately. She was often heard singing, "I'd rather have Jesus than anything." She was loved by the staff at Magnolia Square in Springfield, MO. She was loved by all because of her kindness, loving heart, and great sense of humor.

Helen will be missed by her family, friends, and those who worked at the nursing home in MO, and the two nursing homes where she lived in Sioux City, IA. There is no doubt that Helen is rejoicing with her Savior in heaven with her husband, parents, family, and friends.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Herb; parents, Thore and Pearl Arneson; brother, Ted Arneson, and sister, Lela Phillips; Nephew Jim Arneson, Niece Linda Price. She leaves behind her sister, Mary Elstrom; daughter, Ruth (Jerry) Myhr, son Jon (Lisa) Millen; and grandchildren Cody and Kailey Myhr and Chloe and Nicholas Millen. She had many nieces, nephews, and close friends, including Cricket Mead.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Willard Renew Church, located at 304 Farmer Rd. Willard, MO.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.