Helen Louise Gorla

Helen Louise Gorla, 86, passed away, surrounded by her loving family, on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at Unity Point Health Des Moines Methodist. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, February 9, 2015 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Avenue. A private family burial will be held in the spring at Glendale Cemetery.

Louise was born June 1, 1928 in Des Moines to Loretta (Sickerson) and Thomas Thompson, Sr. Louise married Robert R. Gorla, Sr. and together they were blessed with two children. She was a homemaker and loved taking care of her family. She also loved to shop for herself and her family and was proud to have never paid full price. In her younger years she loved to dance and always maintained a sense of style. She was a lifetime member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, and attended school there and later graduated from St. Joseph Academy. Louise enjoyed decorating and will be remembered for her generosity. Her main passion and love was for her family - especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Louise is survived by her daughter, Cathy Lindsey; brother, Jim (Linda) Thompson; grandchildren, Justin (Danielle) Gorla, Jason Gorla, Josh Gorla and Ryan Lindsey; great-grandchildren, Zach, Hailey and Dakota Gorla; companion, Homer McCutcheon and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Gorla, Sr.; companion, Eddie Goldman; her son, Robert "Bob" Gorla, Jr.; and brothers Tommy Jr. and LeRoy Thompson.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Anthony's or to the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.