Feb 24, 1940---Aug 31, 2024

Helen Frances Brungardt Van Quaethem, 84 of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on August 31, 2024 in Overland Park, Kansas.

Helen was born February 24, 1940, in Codell, KS to Joseph and Elizabeth (Wellbrock) Brungardt.  She was a 1958 graduate from Hays High School and then attended classes at the Brown Mackie School of Business in Salina, Kansas.  Later, she received an Associate in Arts degree from Longview Community College and then a Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri.  She was employed at Western Auto for 13 years and later worked for Accountants on Call.  She became a Mary Kay Consultant on September 15, 1986 spending 38 years building relationships with her clients, earning several team unit/corporate awards and earning her name on the Silver Wings wall at the Mary Kay Global Headquarters.  She was a member of St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church-Kansas City where she volunteered for various jobs over the years and also was a Eucharistic Minister.  Helen enjoyed reading, traveling, painting and cooking.  Over the years she enjoyed making dinners for large family gatherings and friends.   Helen also liked organizing and going out for lunch and dinner with friends and family. 

She is survived by her two daughters, Ronda Van Quaethem and husband Douglas Veach, Renee Van Quaethem and husband Michael van der Breggen; and two grandsons, Jake and Luke van der Breggen.  She is survived by her sister Doreen Wildeman, brother Dale and his wife Thuong Brungardt, brother-in-law Cornelius “Corny” Enslinger, sister-in-law Irene Smith and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her grandparents Balthasar and Rosa (Frank) Brungardt, and John and Anna (Brockelman) Wellbrock; her parents Joseph and Elizabeth (Wellbrock) Brungardt; sisters Mary Brungardt, Rose Brungardt, Mae Suppes, Geraldine “Gerri” Enslinger and brother-in-laws Edward “Eddie” Suppes and Francis Wildeman.  

Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 AM with a Funeral Mass starting at 10:30 AM Saturday, September 14. 2024, with luncheon to follow at the St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 9020 E 51st Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64133.   In lieu of flowers, please donate to Veterans Community Project or St. Bernadette Catholic Church or your favorite charity in memory of Helen.



Condolences

Ann Schulte Sep 03, 2024

My sincere condolences to Ronda, Renee and their families.

Gaila Van Dee, & Keith Sep 03, 2024

Family friends ,Edgerton ,Kansas

Our deepest condolences to you and your family. No words are correct to say, just that we are so sorry for your loss. Gaila & Keith

Shirley Schumacher Sep 04, 2024

Friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

My, sweet girls and family how well I know your heart is broken. It is never ever easy to loose your mother. She was one of a kind. My sister Bonnie and I moved into this apartment building at 45th Main St. 64 years ago and the first person we met was Helen. She and I eventually became roommates and the shenanigans begin. She was always a loving kind person with a big heart. Ronda and Renee may you both fine comfort and peace daily. In knowing she had a good life and was ready to rest. I love you!

Jennifer and Mark Berard Sep 04, 2024

Friends ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Our hearts go out to Ronda and Renee for the tremendous loss of their mother. In this time of grief, which I recall all too well, I hope they can focus on what a wonderful mom and person she was and how much she was loved, and loved others. Her beautiful photo reminds me of her witty and happy nature. In her Honor we have donated to the St Bernadette Parish. We were all lucky to have known her! Jennifer Berard

Joni Van Horn Sep 07, 2024

I’m sending love, light, strength and. Peace of mind to Helen’s family and friends. Namaste

Douglas Parisi Sep 08, 2024

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Ronda and Renee, I was saddened to hear of Helen’s passing. I hope you find comfort in these shared messages of sympathy in your time of mourning. Helen was a wonderful woman. I remember the time I saw her we were sitting at your kitchen table and in typical fashion I was teasing her about moving in to her spare room to save on rent. She always took it in great stride and made the banter so enjoyable. Her kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her. During this difficult time, I extend prayers to you both and your entire family. May you find comfort and strength in the cherished memories of Helen and the support of those who care for you.

Charlene and RC Jones Sep 12, 2024

Friend for several years ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Ronda and Renee, I was so sorry to hear of your mother's death. I enjoyed visiting with her when I came to pick up my Mary Kay products. She was faithful to order for me for over 30 years. Almost every time that I would go in to pick up my order we would get to talking and before I knew it I had been there much longer than I had planned. Your mother loved to talk. I am so sorry for your loss. I know that you will all miss her a lot. So sorry I will not be in town for the funeral. May God wrap his arms around you and give you comfort and peace at this time.

Paige Brown Schlitzer Sep 14, 2024

Neighbor ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Ronda and Renee I am so sorry about Helen. There is nothing quite like a mother’s love and there will surely be a hole left in your hearts. Your mom was a wonderful neighbor to my parents and we were comforted knowing she was just across the yard looking after them. May you find peace in the happy memories.

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