Helen Elaine PLESE

April 7, 1928 – June 2, 2024 (age 96)

On April 7, 1928, Helen Elaine Huetson was born in Beresford, South Dakota, to Walter and Clara (Eldridge) Huetson. Helen and her family lived in several communities throughout South Dakota, Idaho, and Washington before settling in Spokane. She attended Central Valley High School where she met a boy named Joe Plese who was to be the love of her life; however, both went on to marry others and their love story took an additional 30 years to unfold.

Helen married George Hayes Pettis (d. 2019) in 1950 and went on to have three children, Karen (1951), David (1952), and Ann (1957). She loved hosting parties for her children and neighbors and was beloved by all who met her. Although their marriage did not last, she and George remained amicable, and both went on to remarry.

Helen reconnected with Joe and married him in 1975. She and Joe lived in a cabin at Liberty Lake. They loved bowling, golf, and Helen continued hosting parties for her family and friends. Throughout the years, Helen worked as a secretary for Spokane Public Schools, the Spokane Chronicle and Spokesman Review, as well as Valco (Staley) Oil. She loved her work, not retiring until she was well into her 70's.

Helen was witty, spunky, joyful, and compassionate. She loved and served those around her with a beautiful attitude of generous hospitality. Her grandchildren remember her for being joyful, always smiling and laughing. Every Christmas Eve, she would put Bing Crosby on the record player, make popcorn balls, and eat chicken drummies from Schwann's. Her home was always merry and bright. She would meet her daughter, Karen, and her family for breakfast every Saturday, which remained a beloved tradition for over 15 years.

At 96 years old, Helen is finally reunited with her beloved husband, Joe (d. 2011); her parents, Walter and Clara Huetson; and her three brothers, Burdette, Harlan, and Earl Huetson. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Nelson (Gary); son, David Pettis (Candy); stepson, Anthony Plese; ten grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Her legacy of joy will live on in the lives of her family, to whom she will always be remembered and adored. Helen was a devoted member of Millwood Presbyterian Church and was right on time when Jesus called her home to Heaven. Our beloved GG will be immensely missed here on earth, but we are rejoicing today knowing she is exactly where she wants to be – in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To leave condolences for the family, visit www.hennesseyvalley.com.