Yvonne “Porky” Reinarts, age 83 of New Ulm, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Ridgeway on German in New Ulm

Mass of Christian burial will be 11:30 a.m. Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm. Father Jerry Meidl will celebrate the Mass, and ennichement will follow in the New Ulm Catholic Cemetery Columbarium. Visitation will be held from 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Monday at the church prior to the Mass. The Christian Mother’s will pray the rosary at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Cathedral of the Holy Trinity church in New Ulm. To leave an online condolence for the family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org

Porky is survived by her daughter, Michelle “Shelly” Thomas of New Ulm; sons, Troy Reinarts of New Ulm, Brent (Julie) Reinarts of New Ulm; grandchildren, Dustin Thomas of Lake Crystal, Amber Wicke of Jordan, Jordan Reinarts of New Ulm, Drew (Allison) Reinarts of Sleepy Eye, Austin Reinarts of Mille Lacs, and Mason Reinarts of Mille Lacs; 6 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sheri (Arnie) Frederich of New Ulm, Sandy (Bill) West of Johnston City, Illinois, Cindy Portner of New Ulm, Vicky (Lon) Ahlness of Hanska; sister-in-law, Lisa Helget of New Ulm; sister-in-law, Mary Edmunds of LaQuinta, California; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Roseal Helget; parents-in-laws, Leo and Rose Reinarts; husband, John Reinarts; son, Justin Reinarts; sister, Bonnie (Frank) Sweet; brother, Warren Helget; brother-in-law, Greg Portner.

Yvonne Delrose Helget was born July 11, 1942 in Sleepy Eye to Leonard and Roseal Helget. Porky attended and graduated from New Ulm High School. She was united in marriage to John Reinarts on July 7, 1962 in New Ulm. Their union was blessed with a daughter and three sons, whom they raised together in New Ulm. Porky worked at Eiberts Drive-in and provided daycare before starting her 30-year career as head cook at Turner Hall. A longtime member of Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Church in New Ulm, she dedicated her time to her faith community, teaching CCD classes, praying with the Christian Mother’s, and lending a helping hand with funeral lunches. Porky lived life on the go. She had a passion for bowling and enjoyed travelling across the country to take part in tournaments. Porky was inducted to the New Ulm Bowling Hall of Fame in 2012, honoring her bowling achievements. At home, she enjoyed playing cards, especially Sheepshead and 500. Porky was an active member of the Red Hat Ladies and the New Ulm Turner Ladies, where she helped with countless events over the years. Her willingness to volunteer and stay involved made her a familiar and cherished presence in the community. Known for her many talents, Porky had a love for cooking and baking and was especially admired for her skills in the kitchen. She also enjoyed gardening and canning, proudly making pickles and jelly to share. Creative at heart, she spent time sewing and crafting beautiful flower arrangements for weddings and special occasions. Porky’s home was decorated with her extensive collection of pig memorabilia. She also liked anything Elvis Presley; her and John even saw him in concert. She also had a love for shopping and Christmas time. Above all, Porky cherished her family. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always finding ways to spoil them and make them feel special. Her love for them was constant and unconditional.

A true lady of many talents, Porky will be remembered for her tireless spirit, her giving heart, and the countless ways she touched the lives of those around her. She will be dearly missed.

Blessed be her memory.

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