Helen R. Hower

Helen R. Hower, 93, of Fremont, passed away on Mon., Feb. 8, 2016 at Elmwood of Fremont. She was born on Dec. 24, 1922 in Fremont to Claude & Effie (Enfield) Smith.

Helen graduated from Jackson Burgoon High School in 1940. She worked for Sears Roebuck Co. until her retirement. On Sept. 13, 1942, Helen married Dale H. Hower; he preceded her in death in 2006.

Helen enjoyed traveling, oil painting, bowling, and gardening.  She served on the Board of Elections, was a member of Mother's Club, Pinochle Club (for over 50 years), and Harrison Trail Farm Council.

Helen is survived by daughters, Sharon Wirkner of Burgoon and Linda (Steve) Shenkel of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Amy (Chris) Vidoli of Wake Forest, NC, Gary (Kelly) Wirkner of Oak Harbor, and Ryan Shenkel of Phoenix, AZ; 6 great-grandchildren, Elizabeth & Dominic Vidoli, Katelyn & Nicholas Wirkner, and Dayton & Bella Shenkel; and many nieces and nephews.

Helen is also preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Dale & Howard Smith; sister, Wilma Rhoads; son-in-law, Joe Wirkner; and great-grandchildren, Casey Jo & Anthony Vidoli.

Special thanks for the wonderful care from everyone at Elmwood, Heartland Hospice, the doctors and nurses, and to Helen's special friend, Pam.

Friends will be welcomed to the Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Fremont on Saturday, April 23rd at 1:00 P.M. where a memorial service will follow beginning at 2:00 P.M.