Helen Tracy

Helen Margaret (Porsborg) Tracy, age 91, passed away on September 1st, 2025, in Bismarck, North Dakota.

She was born on a farm in Center, North Dakota and was the beloved daughter of the late Dora and Nels Porsborg. She grew up with three older brothers (Lawrence, Kenneth and Myron) and a younger sister (Marilyn). She graduated from Mandan High School and met Mike Tracy at a picnic. They were married in 1952 in Bismarck.

Helen was known by her family and friends for her vibrant personality, her dinner parties and her spirit of inclusion. It did not matter if you were a Republican or a Democrat, if you were on her fundraising list she was going to call you and get your money.

Of Helen’s list of accomplishments, she helped raise money to build the Bismarck YMCA, the Municipal Ballpark and sections of the Public Library including the Children’s Library, the Teen Area and the Café. She was very active in raising money for St. Mary’s High School and was always willing to cook for the famous pancake breakfasts.

Helen was highly respected in the community for her activity on the Board of the Red Cross and the Library Board, on which she served for 21 years. Many knew her from the many years she spent as a member of the Rotary Club and the Knights of Columbus.

After her youngest started school, she went to work for the Highway Patrol and got us out of many speeding tickets.

Helen had the prestigious honor of being the first woman to be appointed to a cabinet position by the governor of the state of North Dakota. For four years she held the title of “Director of the State Workman’s Compensation Bureau.” Moreover, she ran for the State Legislature. Her aspirations led her to study for her real estate license which led to a long successful career as an agent for Robert James Real Estate and Lahr & Lahr until she was 73. Upon retiring, she moved into Touchmark where she thrived and made many friends.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Daniel Michael (DM) Tracy, her son Kevin Tracy and her siblings Lawrence (Lavern) Porsborg, Kenneth (Darlene) Porsborg, Myron (Rosie) Porsborg.

She is survived by her sister Marilyn (Gary) Litt, daughters Kathy (Craig) Heintz, Maureen Tracy, Mary (John) Tracy, Sheila (Mario) Tracy, son Patrick Tracy, and daughter-in-law Trisa (Kevin) Katsikapes. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Ryan Lohstreter, Ligaya Lohstreter, Lloyd Lohstreter, Lance Lohstreter, Cosette Lohstreter, Malachi Lohstreter, Abraham Lohstreter, Simon Lohstreter, Todd Lohstreter (Victoria), Arabelle Lohstreter, Amelia Lohstreter, Alanna Lohstreter, Hugo Lohstreter, Lisa Rasmussen (Andrew), Rohen Rasmussen, Valkyrie Rasmussen, Alek Tracy and Helena Tracy, Dmitri Chomica, Jen (Cliff) Hon, Mijah and Nolah, Jess Heintz (Sarah) Casen.

A memorial service will be conducted on Friday, September 5th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parkway Funeral Service with a light lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Helen’s name to one of her favorite charities, God’s Child Project in Bismarck, North Dakota.