Helen Smelko

Helen Smelko (Doepker) TOGETHER AGAIN

Helen Elizabeth "Wimpy" (Doepker) Smelko of Tallmadge, 74, died at home with her family on Dec. 15 after a long illness. Born to Frank and Rita (Ritchie) Doepker in Akron.

She was a graduate of Tallmadge High school class of 1961. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved shopping, going out to lunch with friends and family. In the summer, she loved to have her garden and looked forward to fresh tomatoes and was a wonderful cook. She had an infectious laugh and a smile that could warm a room and made everyone feel welcomed. She loved collecting angels and now she is one of them watching us from above.

She leaves her children, Kenneth Smelko Jr., Mark (Sherri) Smelko, Sherri Smelko, April (John) Higgins; brothers, John (Linda) Doepker, Charlie (Jan) Doepker; sister, Charlotte (John) Stock; sisters-in-law, Doloris Russo and Deanie (Joe) Webb; grandchildren, Candice Hartney, Mark Smelko; great-grandchildren, Nick Hartney, Cayden Crowe and Chance Crowe; step daughter, Tena McGough; numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband Kenneth.

A special thank you to the Summa Hospice staff.

Calling hours for family and friends will be Tuesday, December 20, 2016 from 5 to 8 p.m. at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, where funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.

Interment at Greenlawn Cemetery in Uniontown. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.NewcomerAkron.com. NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 330-784-3334