Helen M. Zook

Helen M. Zook, 96, a longtime Perry, IA resident passed away on Friday (April 10, 2026) of natural causes at her home, following a sudden medical event.

Helen Marie Fischer was born on October 22, 1929 in Pleasant Valley Twsp, MN to Carl and Alma (Zimmerman) Fischer. She grew up on the family farm before moving to Stewartville as a young girl with her family, following the death of her father, Carl. She attended Stewartville schools and graduated from Stewartville HS in 1948 as valedictorian and was a member of the National Honor Society. She was employed at Production Credit Bank in Rochester for a few years. Helen was married on July 17, 1955 to Charles W. Zook. Following their marriage the couple lived in Austin, MN for a short time. The couple moved to Perry, IA where Charles was employed with the Chicago Milwaukee St. Paul Railroad and where they raised their children and continued to make their home. 

Helen was employed as a legal assistant for two different magistrates – the late Honorable Judge Van Wifvat and the late Honorable Judge William Joy. She also was employed with the Robert Horak Law offices until her retirement in 2025. Charles Zook died on May 5, 2002.

Helen was a past member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Stewartville in her teen years and where she celebrated her marriage. She loved being a Mom to her children and loved cats, and was the best cat mom to Bailey. She enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors and loved time spent with family, especially her daughter, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Helen is survived by her daughter – Jacqueline Zook of Chicago, IL;  granddaughter – Christal (Stephen) Ballou of Waukee, IA and great grandson – Zachary (Jaden) Ballou and great granddaughter - Samantha Ballou; grandson – Corey (Angie) Zook of Madrid, IA and great grandsons – Landyn Zook and Myles Zook, and many nieces and nephews and extended family. She will miss the upcoming birth of her great, great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband – Charles, her son – Douglas, and her parents and brother, Alvin.

A funeral service for Helen will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday (April 17, 2026) at Griffin-Gray FH in Stewartville with Rev. Justin Kumfer officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Stewartville. A time of visitation for friends and family will take place from 11:00 AM to the time of service. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray FH in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Helen are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com. Condolences can also be sent to: Jacqueline Zook, 195 Waukegan Rd. #101, Glenview, IL 60025.

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