Helen Fay Fankhauser

Helen Faye “Robinson” Fankhauser

02/13/1930 – 02/22/2026

Helen Faye Fankhauser was born February 13, 1930 in Clarence, Iowa to Ralph and Emma “Lukemeyer” Robinson. She was the 11th of 12 children. She went to school in West Branch, Iowa, participating in Cheerleading, Basketball “1st Team as a Freshman”, Marching Band “baton twirler”, and Softball “Slugger”. She graduated from West Branch High School in 1950.

Helen married Gerald Norman Fankhauser on May 29,1950 in Waterloo, Iowa.

Helen worked at, and retired from the University of Iowa Hospitals, after 35 years as a Lab Tech in the anatomy department. Helen was known as “Mom” to her peers and medical students. She was famous for her “Apple Cake” and various other treats she brought to work for special occasions or requests, and her family, for her “Signature Rolls”.

Survivors include her 3 daughters, Cindy Lindley of North Liberty, IA, Sandra Stramondo of Jupiter, FL, Janette (Dwayne) Blakely of Higginsville, MO, and 2 sons, Jeffrey (Danielle) Fankhauser of Washington, IA, and Wayne Fankhauser of Jupiter, FL.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Gerald Fankhauser, a son, Jerry Fankhauser, and a daughter, Dixie Chapman, and her 11 brothers and sisters.

At the time of Helen’s passing, God has blessed her with 7 Children, 22 Grandchildren, 42 Great Grandchildren, and 6 +1 “expected” Great-Great Grandchildren.

Helen’s family wants to express their sincere appreciation to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, IA for their excellent care the last 3 years of Helen’s life.

There will be a Family Celebration of Life at a later date.