With sadness in our hearts, the family of Helen Earlene (Duffey) Baumgartner announces her passing on Saturday, April 27, 2024, following a lengthy battle with Cancer.

Born March 8, 1950 in Kirksville, Missouri, the youngest of five children, Helen was the daughter of the late George and Helen (West) Duffey. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by one brother, Mack Duffey; and one sister, Mary (Duffey) Montgomery.

Helen lived her entire life in Kirksville, attending elementary and secondary schools, going on to KSTC before starting her career. She was a graduate from Kirksville High School with the Class of 1968 and then on to KSTC (Truman State University) to gain a degree in the nursing field. Following this, she began her career in nursing and worked as a CNA, Surgical Nurse and Physician Assistant throughout the hospitals and medical offices in Kirksville.

On July 12, 1998, Helen and Jim Baumgartner were married in Kirksville, Missouri. After retirement, Helen and Jim Loved to travel throughout the state in their MEGA motor home and spending time building their new home in Kirksville. Jim and Helen enjoyed the company of lots of friends and colleagues who were like family!

Helen is survived by her husband, Jim of the home; two sons, Chris Kenney and Rudi Ballard. Chris, Kym and Bobbie live in Scottsdale, AZ, and Rudi and Alycia reside in St. Paul, MO. She is also survived by two sisters, Jewell Day of AZ, and Patsy Pentino of PA. Helen was close to all of her nieces and nephews in the Duffey family: Rick and Chad Montgomery of KS, Gloria Duffey of IA, Chad Day and Christine (Day) Miliken of AZ, and Marc Pentino of MD. Helen was a part of a very large West clan and enjoyed the company of many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Additionally, the children and grandchildren of Jim's family were a big part of her life in Kirksville.

It was Helen's wish to be cremated and a Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Arrangements were taken care of by Travis-Noe Funeral Home of Kirksville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Northeast Missouri, and may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.