Susan Helman

Susan Helman, 81, of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away on May 11, 2023, in the Gibson Family Center for Hospice Care. Susan was born in Terre Haute to Arthur and Nancy Sauer. Susan is survived by her son, Troy Helman, and his wife, Bernice; brother, Arthur J. Sauer Jr. (Cheryl). Sister-in-laws Carol Helman and Dawn Helman; brother-in-law Jerry Helman (Kathy); grandchildren Craig Helman (Heather), Sarah Helman (Fiancée Dylan Carr), Ryan Baker (Sahara), Abbe Baker, and great-grandchild (Vaida) as well as several nieces and nephews. Susan was a lifelong resident of Vigo County and was very proud of her dance background.  Her parents operated the Nancy Sauer School of Theatrical Dance in Terre Haute at 1115 Wabash Avenue, which is still in operation.  She aspired to eventually operate the studio until Larry Helman entered her world.   Together they dreamed of opening a real estate company.  With the help of her parents, Susan and Larry opened their real estate company, Larry Helman “Has the Key” Agency, in 1968. The agency grew, and they built a new facility in downtown Terre Haute in 1978.  Her son and daughter-in-law purchased the company in 2009, merged with Williams and Associates in 2010, and moved to 788 S 3rd Street in Terre Haute. Susan and Larry’s company won numerous awards internationally with the Coldwell Banker Franchise. Susan was the Principal Broker and Manager of their company.  Susan was also the company bookkeeper, trainer, relocation director, and motivator.  In addition to those responsibilities, she managed numerous rental properties. She was content to do all the behind the scene work, so Larry could do what he loved, sell homes!  Locally, Susan and Larry were recipients of the Chapman S Root Award presented by Hospice of the Wabash Valley and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council’s, Great American Dream Award. Susan truly believed in community service and believed in service above self. Susan served on various boards and committees throughout her life in the Wabash Valley community, such as PTO, Women’s Club, Tri Kappa, and Terre Haute Girls Club. She especially enjoyed her work on the Shoe Bus.   Above all,  her greatest joy was her family.  She spoiled each and every one of them.  Susan was an elegant woman, full of grace, love, and compassion, not only for her family but all her friends.  All knew that Susan was a person you could count on. Services will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Greiner Funeral Home, 2005 North 13th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47804.  Visitation is from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, and funeral services are at 1:00 pm —burial services are to follow at Rose Lawn Cemetery.  Pallbearers are: Arthur J. Sauer, Jr, Arthur J. Sauer, III, Craig Helman, Ryan Baker, Tim Govert, Brent Miller.  The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Hospice of the Wabash Valley or Terre Haute Women’s Club Shoe Bus.  

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