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David “Lon” Helland, age 76, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed away on July 6, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Health System following lung surgery. He was surrounded by the love of his wife and children, Tim and Lisa.
Lon was born on August 2, 1948, in Forest City, Iowa, to Amos and Ardis Helland. His family eventually settled in Rock Falls, Wisconsin, where his lifelong passion for anything with wheels first took root. After graduating from Memorial High School, Lon explored various paths before beginning a career that would take him across the country—behind the wheel of a semi-truck. For over 20 years, his “office with a view” became a place of connection, stories, and friendships with people from all walks of life.
At home in Eau Claire, Lon was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Susan, with whom he shared 57 beautiful years of marriage. He was a proud father to Lisa and Timothy and cherished grandfather to Jake and Sydney Helland, Emmalise, Audrey, Katharine, and Christian Mayer. Though one grandchild, Xavier Mayer, preceded him in death, Lon held each of his grandchildren close to his heart.
Lon is survived by his wife, Susan; son Tim and his wife Andrea, along with their children Jake and Sydney; daughter Lisa Mayer and her husband Scott, and their children Emmalise, Audrey, Katharine, and Christian. He is also lovingly remembered by his extended family: brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law David and Mary Jentile, Chuck Jentile, Paul and Denice Jentile, and Carol Helland, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends who were like family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Amos and Ardis Helland; his brother, Nelson; his parents-in-law, Virginia and Garfield Jentile; and grandson Xavier Mayer.
Lon’s spirit was defined by quiet strength and resourcefulness. His signature phrase, “We’ll figure it out,” became a family mantra that reflected his unwavering resolved and creativity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
True to his private nature, Lon requested no funeral, visitation, or formal celebration of life. Instead, his legacy endures in the hearts of those who loved him, in the memories he made, and in the lives he touched.
Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center in Altoona is serving the family.
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Ron Halpern
Deeply sorry to hear of another classmate passing. As time goes by, we grow increasingly aware of the increasing number of our classmate losses, but that still never makes it any easier. Regardless of who it is, each passing causes us all to lose a little piece of our collective soul.
Rest in peace fellow traveler and brother.
Linda Johnson (Benoit)
I feel as though I could wax on and on about the qualities of Lon Hellend. So, I went to Caryville Elementary with Lon. I lived near Caryville and he was in Rock Falls. Bonnie Helgoe from our class at MHS also lived in Rock Falls. We all played together up to 6th grade when we were shipped off to E.C. for Jr. High. We three remained friends for many years. I also think the world of Sue, Lon's wife. I was sorry to hear of his passing and personally I feel 76 years on this earth is not enough. I am grateful for knowing the our Lord has our days numbered. I have personally put in for many more healthy years on this earth. We shall see how this goes.Linda Johnson - from Caryville. I make the distinction as there were two Linda Johnson's in our class but only one known as the Caryville Queen. Thank you Dave Forcier for this life long lasting nick name.
Diane Gabriel (Iverson)
Sue, memories from years past remind me of the most beautiful couple Sue and Lon. I am so sad to learn of Lon's death. You and your children now have a new "road" to travel, know that you are not alone. Your future after 57 years has begun a chapter none of us could imagine. Know you are not alone in this time of your life. Reach out when you are ready, I would be here for sympathy and support. I understand and care. Diane Gabriel Iverson
Jean Behnke (Wisnewski)
It is always with great saddness to hear of another loss of a classmate. I do remember Lon and Sue from school and so happy they had 57 years together. Although when you lose someone it never seems like it was never enough. Keep your many memories close. R.I.P
Dennis Hoepner
So sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Our deepest regards to his family.