Helen Schwartz Fredkin

1925 - 2016

Helen (Henne) Schwartz Fredkin
Dec. 24, 1925 - May 28, 2016
Resident of Monte Sereno
Helen (Henne) Schwartz Fredkin, born December 24, 1925 in San Francisco, died peacefully in the early morning hours of May 28, 2016. She is survived by her two sons and daughters-in-law, Mark and Susan Fredkin and Gary and Nanci Fredkin, five grandchildren, Tracy, Kimberley, Leah, Joshua and Maxwell and one Great Grandson, Cole who were all spending time with Helen before her passing. Helen is also survived by her two Sisters and Brothers-in-law, William and Faye Breall and Donald and Roz Kahn of San Francisco, and her Sister-in-law Ruth Seiler, as well as cousins, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
The oldest of three daughters born to Philip and Rebecca Schwartz, Helen was an avid reader and excellent student. She met her husband, Bernard Fredkin, at UC Berkeley right after the war in 1945. They were married on July 4th, 1946. For 53 years, Helen and Bernard raised a family in San Jose and built a successful business together, Northern Distributing Company. They navigated various personal hardships over the years. Bernard overcame Hodgkin's disease and Helen had to fight Tuberculosis, but through it all, they achieved much success and happiness within their family and community. Her hardships became her classroom for developing a wonderful philosophy of life. She lived to enjoy each day. She learned to be optimistic and confident in the face of adversity and was able to teach this strength through example to her son's, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
Helen's home in Monte Sereno was the meeting place for Family gatherings. She loved to cook and host her family and friends for every holiday. She also attended most every performance, graduation, honor or athletic event participated in by her children and grandchildren. No one cheered louder or with more passion.
Smart and competitive, Helen spent many hours on the golf course at Hillview and later at La Rinconada CC and at bridge tables around the area. She excelled at all games and loved to teach and compete with her grand children at every opportunity.
Helen's last battle was with Alzheimer's disease. While it slowly absorbed her memory over the last six years, her spirit, insight and love were always able to shine through. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
The family asks that donations in Helen's name be sent to either Alzheimer's Association 2290 N. First Street, Suite 101, San Jose, CA 95131 or the charity of your choice.


View the online memorial for Helen (Henne) Schwartz Fredkin