October 12, 1940 – October 15, 2025
Arco, Idaho

Early Life
Helen Walker Hansen was born on October 12, 1940, to M. Scott Walker and Helen A. Walker at her grandparents’ ranch in Lost River, Idaho. She joined her sisters Billee Lee and Leree, and later welcomed her brother Monte, completing a close-knit family that shared a deep bond.

Helen’s childhood in Arco was full of adventure—working hard, exploring the mountains, catching lizards, and playing with her siblings. Her bright and outgoing personality made her beloved by all who knew her.

During her eighth-grade year, the Walker family moved to Glendora, California, where Helen attended school, spent time with cousins, and fell in love with the ocean and horseback riding. They returned to Arco when Helen began her sophomore year of high school.

Love & Marriage
In high school, Helen became a cheerleader—since women’s sports were not allowed in Idaho at that time—and it was during these years that she met Lane Hansen. Their connection was instant and deep. On the night of their high school graduation, Lane proposed, and Helen joyfully accepted.

They were married on September 19, 1958, in Lost River, later sealed in the Logan Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, marking the beginning of a lifelong adventure together.

Family & Home
Helen and Lane lived in several places as Lane built his career. Their first child, Teresa, was born in Southern California, followed by Marianne, Toni, and Michael in Arco. While living in Boise, they welcomed Lynette and Richard, and after returning to Arco—their forever home—they completed their family with David.

Together, Helen and Lane ran Valley Insurance Center in Arco, a business they operated with dedication and integrity.

Faith, Service & Talents
Helen’s greatest joy was her family, and she poured her heart into caring for them. She loved her Savior, Jesus Christ, and taught her children to love Him as well. A gifted homemaker, she taught herself to cook and sew, creating beautiful meals and clothing for her family.

While in Boise, Helen discovered a love for oil painting, adding another dimension to her creative spirit. She found peace and joy in nature—especially camping, fishing, and tending her beautiful flower garden, which she filled with color and life.

Helen also served faithfully in many callings within her church. Her decades of dedication to the Scouting program in Arco shaped countless young men’s lives. As District Scout Advancement Chairman, she helped numerous boys earn their Eagle Scout Awards and was honored with the Silver Beaver Award for her service.

Her compassion and steadfast faith were most evident in her role as a devoted caregiver to her son for 16 years following his accident, a role she fulfilled with tireless love and grace.

Final Years & Legacy
After Lane’s passing in 2023, Helen felt his absence deeply but continued to live with quiet strength and faith. Despite health challenges in her later years, she remained cheerful, resilient, and full of gratitude.

Helen passed away peacefully in her home on October 15, 2025, surrounded by love and family.

She is survived by her children: Teresa Dando, Marianne Noy, Toni (Darrell) McDonald, Michael (Carla), Lynette (Doug) Simpson, Richard (Talisha), and David;
22 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and her brother-in-law Don Walrath.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, her husband Lane, and one grandson, Nathaniel Dando.

Service Information
A viewing will be held in her honor on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the Anderson Family Funeral Home.
Funeral services will follow on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Arco Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building.
Family will greet friends one hour before the service.
Interment will be held at the Lost River Cemetery.

Legacy
Helen will be remembered for her faith, strength, kindness, and unshakable devotion to her family. Her love will continue to bloom in the lives of those she nurtured, taught, and inspired.