Helen Gould Franta

Helen Gould Franta passed away Sunday afternoon, November 23, 2025, in Arizona. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Eunice and Fred Gould. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bill Franta; children, Ryan Franta and Alison (Wayne) Rainey; grandson, Will Rainey; siblings Fred Gould Jr and Sally (Duane) Lawrence; and several in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Helen was born in 1947 in St. Paul, raised in White Bear Lake and Forest Lake Minnesota. Educated at Mankato State, she earned a BA in Education. High school sweethearts, Helen and Bill married after college and moved to several places with the USAF. Returning many summers to Minnesota, Helen enjoyed life-long friends, extended family, and their Mille Lacs cabin.

Helen loved to travel, golf, celebrate Christmas, and play with her grandson. She cultivated beautiful gardens and delighted in welcoming guests into her home, which was always filled with joy and comfort. Generous with her smile, she truly adored learning and laughing with friends.

A memorial will be held Friday April 17. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.