Helen L. Shortt

Helen Lorraine Shortt, age 93, passed away on November 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 12, 1932, to the late Rudolph and Emma (Lueders) Herrmann in Appleton. She attended Appleton High School. Following high school, Helen was out with friends on the avenue in Appleton when she met the young man who was destined to be the love of her life.

That young man was Gerald Shortt, and he happened to be home on leave from the Navy. It was love at first sight! They married on August 20, 1955, and spent the next 61 years together. Helen and Jerry spent time relaxing and enjoying family and friends at their cottage on Moshawquit Lake. That family cottage as well as their “snowbird” home in Ft Meyers, FL were central to the countless memories of fun times shared with family.

Helen was a homemaker first and foremost. She spent many years as a volunteer at Appleton Medical Center (now ThedaCare Appleton) working in the gift shop. As a member of Zion Lutheran Church, she sang in the church choir for many years. She loved music of all sorts but was especially inspired by faith-filled songs. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. For her, there simply was NEVER enough time to share with them.

She is survived by her children: Vicki (John) Geurts, Richard Shortt, Jacquelyn (Jim) Trunk; grandchildren: Amy (Brett) Danelski, Michelle (Scott) Thompson, Melissa (Joshua) Sanders, Ally (Connor) Montgomery, Eric (Kasey) Trunk, Ethan Shortt; great grandchildren: Stella, Nora, Clark, Cole, Eli, Harper, Maverick, Charlotte, Lucy, Brooks, Emma, Eddie, and one more on the way. In addition, she is survived by two brothers Jerry Herrmann and Jim (Mary) Herrmann as well as other relatives and friends. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, her parents, a grandson Jordan Shortt and two brothers and two sisters.

Helen’s life will be celebrated privately by her family. She will be entombed at Highland Memorial Park-reunited with Jerry once again.

Helen’s family would like to thank the caregivers at Helen’s House and St Croix Hospice for the professional and loving care provided.