Helena Obrecht was born in Baden, Germany on May 17, 1884. She entered the Clyde convent on October 20, 1912, was invested July 6, 1913, and professed as Sister M. Apollonia on August 5, 1914.

Being a native of Germany, it was difficult for Sister to adjust to American ways after entering the convent, though she was quick to learn the English language. She was sacrificial in her duties, especially prayerful and zealous in taking regular and difficult hours of adoration. She was also a very good cook, simple and humble, and loved by all.

Sister was transferred to the Mundelein community in June, 1928 and remained there until her death. While a member of the Mundelein community, she developed a serious spinal affliction which finally caused her death on December 29, 1932 at the age of forty-eight.