Helen Radke

Helen L. Radke, formerly of Allegan, passed away peacefully at her home in Zeeland, Michigan, on April 15, 2012, she was 86. Helen was born in the village of Elkhurst in Clay County, West Virginia on March 20th, 1926 to Harley and Lucy (Ellis) Cook.

Surviving are three children, Larry and Peggy Radke of Vicksburg, Linda Milbocker of Haines City, FL, George Radke Jr and Michelle of Allegan; a sister, Jackie Eckelstafer of Holland; 7 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Sr; her brothers Harley (Harold), Hadley, George (Chub); and Michael: her sister; Elma Emogene Brosz..

Helen and her family left West Virginia in 1932 to seek their fortune during Michigan's oil boom. The family temporarily resided in Mount Pleasant, then in Alma and Overisel, until permanently settling in Allegan. While in Allegan, Helen met her future husband, George William Radke Sr., who had recently returned from Central Europe after serving in WWll, while she was working at the Regent Theater in the 1940's. Helen retired in 1987 from the human resource department of Rockwell International in Allegan. Upon retirement, Helen and George relocated to Haines City, Florida, but the couple still enjoyed many summers in Allegan.

Helen was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Allegan for many years.She enjoyed travelling to Europe, cooking, and volunteer work. She was unparalleled in the kitchen, and was known for making the perfect pie crust. In her retirement, she kept herself busy by taking up dancing and volunteering at the Haines City Chamber of Commerce.

A memorial service and luncheon will be held on April 27, 2012 at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Allegan followed by a graveside service at Oakwood Cemetery, Allegan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Allegan.