Obituary: Helen Jessie (Becker) Thomas - Class of 1931

MIDDLETON - Helen Jessie Thomas, age 94, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008. She was born on Dec. 17, 1913, the daughter of Fred K. And Susan V. (Fry) Becker. Helen graduated from Central High School in Madison. She was employed as a salesperson at Triggs Bakery in Madison. Helen enjoyed gardening and had a passion for reading that she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed rosemaling, quilting and crocheting for her grandchildren. Helen was a member of St. Bernard's Catholic Church, Women's Police Auxiliary, and the Christian Mothers at St. Bernard's. She is survived by her children, Helen "Bonnie" (Duane) Van Haren of Middleton, Marietta (Robert Tucker) Kust of Waunakee, Valarie (Ted) Cole of Decatur, Ga., Vicki (Jerry) McGuire of Oregon, Emil Thomas of Middleton, Tomas (Jeanne) Thomas of Madison, Newel (Carol) Thomas of Eagle, Kim (Ron) Loresch of Madison; many grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two sisters, Lyllyan Emden and Izola Roller; three brothers, Fredolin Becker, James Becker and LaVergne Becker; and a grandson, Scott Van Haren. A memorial service will be held at ST. BERNARD'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7450 University Avenue, Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, with Monsignor Douglas Dushack presiding. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until time of service at the church on Wednesday. Gunderson West Funeral and Cremation Centers 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 17, 2008

Note: Helen J. Becker's Class year is based on a list of Madison Central High School graduates published in the Wisconsin State Journal on June 5, 1931.