Born October 31, 1918 in Aberdeen, WA, passed away peacefully in Tacoma on July 2, 2017 with family by her side. She was preceded in death by her husband Reno, parents Theodore and Selma and brother, Leo.

She grew up with immigrant parents and started school only speaking Finnish. She rose to the top of her class and graduated with honors. Her best friend Virginia said Helen was the smartest person she ever knew.

Mom always said that family came first. She managed to spoil all of her kids Leslie, Jerry (Rene), Ronnie (Connie), Janet Fritz, Sue Redding (John) and John. She took care of her kids while Reno tended to the family business of Bimbo’s Italian Restaurant. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, tatting, crossword puzzles, traveling and going to Sons of Italy meetings. After her family was raised, she took flight and visited her relatives several times in Finland. She also traveled with family throughout the U.S.A.

Mom was a gentle person. She enjoyed a full and happy life. She is survived by her 6 children, 7 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Graveside service will be held Tuesday, July 11th at 2:00pm at Calvary Cemetery; followed by a celebration of life at Point Ruston, Copperline Condos. All family and friends are invited to attend. Directions will be available at the service or you may call (253) 370-2716 for directions. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home

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