Helen Ann Brenton, aged 99, of Wausau, passed away peacefully following a brief illness on March 14, 2026.

Helen was an 'all star' wife, mother, grandmother, friend, listener, musician, educator and Christian.

Helen was born in Clinton, Iowa to Ralph and Harriet White. She graduated from the University of Iowa as a music major. At U of I she met her future husband, Frank "Les". They moved to Wausau with their one year old son, Steve, in 1953, and proceeded to have three more children, Ann, Laura and Betsy.

Helen was largely a stay-at-home mom for her children. She also directed choirs at several Wausau churches. Helen started her music teaching career in 1967, a position she held for twenty years.

Helen and Les retired in 1987 and traveled extensively, spent winters in Arizona and spoiled their six grandchildren and later four great grandchildren. They were extremely active and visible in the Wausau community.

Helen was a beautiful listener to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She would genuinely want to know how they were doing and what brought joy or sadness. She had a caring tenderness with her family and they felt loved unconditionally in her presence. They also loved her red lipstick which she wore until the end.

In addition to family, the center of Helen's life was Wausau's First Presbyterian Church where she and Les were active members for many decades. Her faith in Jesus Christ deepened as the years went by and the chair that she sat in daily was surrounded by devotionals and her bible.

Helen's family wishes to express appreciation to caregivers at Forest Park and the Gardens and to a long list of caring and supportive friends whose company she cherished, especially following Les' death in 2017. The love and support of this group cannot be understated.

Services will be held on Monday, May 18th at the Wausau First Presbyterian Church with a Visitation and Reception from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m.

Memorials suggested to Wausau Conservatory of Music Brenton Scholarship Fund.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS