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Helen Russell Obituary
1930-2024
Helen Denenfeld Russell passed away peacefully on April 20, 2024, in Vero Beach, Florida, at the age of 93.
Born on August 14, 1930, in Windsor, Ontario, daughter of Ernest and Yetta Denenfeld. Helen grew up in Detroit, Michigan, as the second oldest of five sisters along with Pearl Moss, Marsha Radner, Sonia Katz and Edde Backalar. She moved to Toledo, Ohio, as a young adult where she provided love, guidance, and support to her three children, Sharon Aloni, Mona Russell (deceased) (Robert Hess), and Gary (Linda) Russell. She leaves behind four grandchildren, Maya Aloni (Raymond O'Brien III), Shaul Aloni, Alanna (Nathan) Zuniga, Claire (Dustin) Wert. In her later years, Helen relocated to Vero Beach, Florida, to be closer to her daughters, embracing the warmth of the community and the seaside tranquility.
In her early 40s, after raising her family, she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Toledo and a Master's in Social Work from the University of Michigan. She spent over three decades helping families navigate the complexities of relationships as a marriage and family counselor. Her love for children, and especially babies, led her, and her partners, to found the adoption agency Adoption Assessor LMT. She worked tirelessly to ensure that children were placed in homes where they could thrive. Her educational and work accomplishments inspired those around her to believe that embarking on a new career is possible even later in life.
Helen was the heart and strength of her family, often utilizing her counseling skills to provide advice and support to those around her. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of others continues to inspire all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gould Farm, a cause close to Helen's heart. Donations can be made through the following link: https://www.gouldfarm.org/support-us
Helen's passing is a profound loss, yet her spirit-a beacon of hope and healing-will forever light the paths of those she loved.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Helen Russell
4 Entries
Marsha Radner, sister
June 20, 2024
Rest In Peace, my precious sister, Helen. You were my mentor. You are always in my heart. I miss you so much!
Carol Maloney
May 10, 2024
Helen has been a dear friend and a role model for me since we first met in 1975 . I have always admired her strong, independent spirit. She was a skillful social worker, therapist and adoption assessor. Her love for her children and grandchildren was always top priority. She left me with many beautiful memories
Brent Rubin
May 10, 2024
Our condolences to the Russell family. She was a wonderful mother and matriarch for the Russell family. May G-d give the family strength during this time of sorrow.
Dorothy Jagielski
May 9, 2024
Helen was an elegant, gracious, and very accomplished lady. I'm so grateful to have had her come into my life several years back. She is an inspiration to me. My sympathy to her wonderful family.
Dorothy Jagielski
Toledo, Ohio
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