Lowell James Helmers

Lowell James Helmers, 64, of Albert Lea, MN, passed away suddenly on March 9, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Mankato, MN, due to heart failure.

Lowell was born on March 11, 1961, to Dennis and Judith (Hanson) Helmers. Named after the family doctor, Dr. Lowell Barr Sr., Lowell grew up striving to live up to that legacy—a goal he proudly achieved. He was baptized with his brother Bradley at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hollandale and later confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Albert Lea.

During his early years, Lowell faced health challenges, developing type one diabetes. Despite its impact on his life and self-esteem, he remained diligent about his health. Not long thereafter, Lowell’s parents divorced and his mother let her sons decided if they wanted to stay in Rochester or move back to Albert Lea. The boys missed being close to their grandparents Henry “Hank” and Bessie Hanson; Helen Helmers; and many of their other relatives, so the three of them packed up and moved back home to Albert Lea.

Lowell graduated from Central High School in Albert Lea in 1980 and for a short time moved to Texas with his father, stepmother, and half-sister Holly. Missing his mother, he returned to Albert Lea to pursue higher education. He worked various jobs and attended Riverland College to train in electro-plating, eventually securing a long-term position in St. Louis Park, MN. Known for his dedication, Lowell often worked ten or even twelve hour overnight shifts. Lowell endured numerous surgeries over the years, eventually causing him to retire in 2019 after twenty-six years in the industry, prioritizing his health.

Even as his health declined, Lowell pursued new passions. After giving up his driver’s license, he discovered electric biking, enjoying rides around town, on trails, and maintaining his bikes. Later, as he became wheelchair-bound, Lowell was resilient, cultivating a love of reading—once amassing over three hundred books—and enjoying games like blackjack and chess with friends. He lived independently and fully, never letting health challenges define him.

Lowell is survived by his loving mother, Judy Thompson; his brother Bradley (Jennifer Lovelace) Helmers; his uncle Robert (Sheila) Helmers; his aunts Lorainne Helmers, Carol J., five other aunts; close friends David O. of Lake City, MN, Dan C. of Albert Lea, MN, Fred of Cannon Falls, MN, and David H. of Albert Lea, MN, all of which Lowell and his mother were incredibly fond of and thankful for; along with many cousins, extended family members and friends.

Lowell was preceded in death by his father and step-mother Dennis and Judy Helmers; his step-father Clayton Thompson; his half-sister Holly Helmers; both his maternal and paternal grandparents; his aunts and uncles: Lavon (Ted) Betsinger, Ramona (Milton) Olson, Loraine Lenze, Ronald Hanson, David Hanson, Roger (Shiela) Hanson; Daryl Helmers, Gordon (Diana) Helmers, Ronald (Pamela) Helmers, Arthur Helmers; and cousins Kristine Wakefield, Mark Helmers, Tim Helmers, and Randy Mitchell.

A Celebration of Life to honor and remember Lowell will be held at a later date. Attendees are invited to dress casually, reflecting Lowell’s cool, down-to-earth spirit. He will be interred at Hillcrest Cemetery in a private family ceremony. Details for the Celebration of Life will be available once scheduled.

Blessed be his memory.