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Helen Parker Obituary
Helen grew up on her parents' farm in upstate New York near the town of South Bethlehem. She attended grammar school in South Bethlehem and high school in nearby Ravena. During Helen's early adulthood, she moved to New York City where she worked as a governess and later worked for Western Electric building communications equipment for the war effort.
Helen joined Calvary Baptist Church in Manhattan where she grew in her hunger for God's Word and commitment to her God and Savior, Jesus Christ. For several years, Helen enjoyed serving the Lord by singing in the Calvary Baptist Church choir. During World War II, Helen served in the church's "Canteen" ministry - where servicemen on leave in NYC found escape from the rigors of war with food, fellowship, and encouragement in the Word of God. It was at one of these Canteen events that Helen met her future husband, Coast Guard second class petty officer, Fred E. Parker.
After the war, on Sept. 7, 1946, Helen and Fred were married at the Methodist Church in South Bethlehem, N.Y., and began their 65 years of marriage. The fruit of their love and marriage includes two daughters, Joan (David) Aaseng and Janice Parker; along with two sons, Don (Sharon) Parker and Fred (Kathy) Parker Jr.
Helen loved and selflessly cared for her family, and regularly prayed for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, canning, fishing, swimming, and camping with her husband and children. For over 60 years, Helen prepared meals for family, friends, pastors, missionaries, neighbors; her husband, of course, being most thankful of all.
Helen is survived by her loving husband, Fred, a faithful life partner who gave extra special care and attention in her latter years. Additionally surviving, embracing, and advancing her spiritual legacy are her four children, 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Preceding Helen in her journey to heaven are her parents, John and Anna Zolko; four brothers, Frankie, John Jr., Andrew, and Alfred; and six sisters, Anna (infant), Mary Ann, Elsie, Anna, and Rosemary. Surviving siblings are Agnes Doberstein of Chapel Hill, N.C., Harriett Zolko of South Bethlehem, N.Y., and Joan Joslin of Voorheesville, N.Y.
Visitation will be Friday, Sept. 23, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Higgins Funeral Home. The service celebrating Helen's life will be Saturday, Sept. 24, at 11 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, Wisconsin Rapids; with visitation from 10 a.m. until time of services. Burial will be in the Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.
Higgins Funeral Home assisted the family with funeral arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Helen Parker
September 28, 2011
Dear Jan, Well, it has been many, many years since we have seen each other, but I wanted to extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family. Whenever I would see your Mom and Dad out I would always stop and chat with them and ask how you were. They were always so sweet. And I also rememmber how I always felt so very welcome when I would come over to your house( way back when...). You never know when or where something will bring back a loving memory of your Mom that will make you laugh and cry at the same time, but that is what keeps you going.
Warmest regards,
Elaine(Pelot)Williamson
Donna Hofschild
September 23, 2011
Fred, Joan, Jan, Don, and Freddy and families--I was sad to hear about your wife and mother's death. She was blessed to have lived such a wonderful life. I will always remember her thoughtful and caring attitude. I spent alot of time with your family and feel like I was "one of the family." Jan has been my special constant since we met--she is one awesome friend forever. She definitely carries on her Mom's chaaracter of love and caring. God bless you and we know she is enjoying her presence with the Lord Jesus Christ. Donna and Bob Hofschild
Dawn & Mike Altschuler
September 23, 2011
Uncle Fred, Joanie, Jan, Don and Fred
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please know that Aunt Helen is being welcomed in heaven by her parents and siblings.
Love,
Dawn & Mike
Rosey Ciaccio
September 22, 2011
Uncle Fred and cousins Joanie, Jan, Don and Fred,
I was so sorry to hear about Aunt Helen. What a wonderful woman she was and always strong in her faith. We can take comfort in knowing she is at peace and now with the Lord, and the rest of the Zolkos in heaven. My sympathies to all and your families. God Bless.
John Joslin
September 22, 2011
Uncle Fred, Joanie,Jan,Don,Fred, Your Mom was a wonderful woman who is reaping the rewards of Heaven.
Jan & Rich Pettersen
September 22, 2011
Fred and family,
Our thoughts and prayers as you celebrate Helen's life. We remember her as a very gracious encourager.
Bill and Pam Doberstein
September 22, 2011
To our dear family members (Especially Uncle Fred): As ever, our prayers go forth asking for comfort and peace. We know that Aunt Helen's passing into God's Kingdom is a joyous occasion. How wonderful to have her heavenly birthday be the same as her earthly one. When we last saw her at the farm, she was such a joy to be around and our children still talked about their great Aunt Helen... may you all feel God's hand as it rests on your shoulder and hear his voice saying, "it is well."
September 22, 2011
Helen was a true ladyand wonderful friend/neighbor. We will miss her.
Goodness Family
September 21, 2011
So sorry to learn of your lose. The times that our paths crossed, she was alway so warm and welcoming. Truly a special woman. Will remember your family in prayer. Candy Daoust
Jack & Dixie McNamee
September 20, 2011
Dear Parker Family,
We are sad for your loss, but happy for Helen's gain, for now she is with our good Lord. We will always remember with smiling hearts her welcoming ways. May the Lord wrap His arms around all of you, and carry you through this time of sorrow.
Our love, thoughts and prayers,
Jack and Dixie (McNamee)
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