She was born on December 3, 1916, on her grandparent’s farm in rural Russell County, Kansas the daughter of Earl Milo and Katherine Maye (Lindsay) Cook.  She attended Russell public schools and graduated from Russell High School (1934).  She was united in marriage to Melven "Duke" Neil on January 8, 1949 in Wichita, Kansas.   They were blessed with five children Janet, Linda, Allan, Gordon and Bill. She was active in Rainbow Girls, F.H.A. and a member of the Eastern Star. She and Duke attended Bunker Hill United Methodist Church.  She had a good sense of humor and always enjoyed having her family together and preparing wonderful food.

Surviving family include her husband Duke of Wichita, daughters Janet Metz and husband Doug of Wichita and Linda Renberger husband Gary of Derby; sons Allan Neil and wife Ginny of Wichita, Gordon Neil of Russell, Bill Neil and wife Carla of Russell; one foster son Dale Cowan , 15 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Geraldine Mistler and granddaughter Brandy Winkler.

A gathering to celebrate Helengene’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, August 3, 2009 at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell.  A private family burial will take place following the services at the mortuary.  Family and friends my sign the guestbook at the mortuary the day of the service.  No viewing is scheduled since cremation has preceded the service.  Memorials may be given to the Bunker Hill United Methodist Church and sent in care of the mortuary.  Condolences may be sent by going to www.pvpmortuary.com.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary is in charge of the funeral arrangements.