Helen Margaret Burrows

Helen Margaret Burrows, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and lifelong member of the Kittitas Valley community, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on July 25, 2025, in Cle Elum, Washington, at the age of 95. Helen was born to Paul and Esther Burkholder, who, after Helen's birth, moved and farmed in Kittitas, Washington. She had two brothers, Melvin and Clarence.
Born in Ellensburg and raised in Kittitas, Washington, Helen graduated from Kittitas High School before earning her teaching degree from what was then the Central Washington State College of Education. She began her career as a teacher, but became a familiar and beloved figure in Ellensburg as a school bus driver-a role she held for many years before retiring in the late 1990s.
Helen was well known for her green thumb. Her rose and vegetable gardens were the pride of her yard; the beauty and bounty was often shared with friends and family during the summer harvest. Helen's love for gardening was just one of many ways she nurtured those around her.
An adventurous spirit, Helen traveled throughout her life. In her early years, she journeyed to Europe with her mother, Esther, and sons Doug and Gary to visit son Paul, who was stationed overseas with the military. They were also able to connect with family in Denmark. In retirement, Helen continued to explore, returning to Europe a couple of times, traveling across the United States, Canada, and even visiting Australia.
One of Helen's joys was cheering on the Seattle Mariners. Alongside her good friend, Char Sheridan, Helen was a frequent fixture at Mariners games. An especially memorable game included catching a foul ball hit by Edgar Martinez! The two made countless trips over the mountains to root for their team, and family members often spotted Helen on TV thanks to their prime seats near the camera.
Helen truly blossomed in her role as a grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and traveled extensively for them-whether across Washington or across the country to Minnesota-to attend sporting events, dance recitals, music performances, graduations, or any event where one of them was participating. If her grandkids were performing or competing, Helen was in the audience supporting them.
Helen is survived by her sons and their families: Paul (Julie) of Eagan, Minnesota, and their daughter, Dr. Stephanie Burrows of Lincoln, Nebraska; Doug (Kari) of Chelan, Washington, and their sons, Matthew (Alexandra), and great-granddaughter, Arlie, of Helena, Montana, and Kyle of Bonney Lake, Washington; Gary (Cheryl) of Cle Elum, Washington, and their children, Mitchell (Rose) of Billings, Montana; Delaney Burrows of Liberty, Alabama; and Karley Burrows of Ellensburg, Washington. She is also survived by nieces, nephews, and distant cousins.
Helen leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love for her family and deep commitment to her community. Her presence will be dearly missed but remembered with gratitude and joy.
The family would like to thank the staff at Malibu House in Cle Elum for their steadfast kindness and compassion, and for the care they provided Helen.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Friends in Service to Humanity (FISH) whose team and volunteers provided Helen with not only meals but friendship. Please send Donations to FISH Community Food Bank 804 Elmview Road. Ellensburg, Washington. 98926
Services will be held Saturday, August 9th 12:30 in the afternoon at Brookside Funeral Home. Located at 500 E. Mountain View Avenue. Ellensburg, Washington.