Helen married Toby Kappler, April 13, 1949 and they enjoyed 54 years of marriage, before his passing in 2003. In their early years of marriage, while raising their children, she worked at Northwestern School of Commerce (1952-1958).
Helen decided she wanted to further her education and there embarked on an illustrious teaching career. She received a Bachelor of Science (1963) and Masters of Science in Teaching (1967) from Portland State University. Helen taught Business Education at Grant High School (1963-1987) and Portland Community College (1988-1993). As curriculum chair, she headed a group of teachers across the district to rewrite the entire Portland Public School curriculum for Business Education. Helen was nominated for the National Business Education Secondary Teacher Award in 1982. She received Business Teacher of the year for Oregon (1982-1983).
Helen was an active member of the Oregon Business Education Association (1969-1988), serving in many capacities, including District A representative, second vice-president, first vice-president, president and past president.
Helen joined Delta Kappa Gamma (Eta chapter), May 1971 and served as membership chair, secretary, vice-president, president, editor and co-chair of the yearbook, Rules of Committee chair, Parliamentarian and by-laws committee.
She was the first District 6 coordinator (four years) for Alpha Rho State, New Oregon Trail Editor (six years) and served on the by-laws committee.
She and her beloved husband, Toby belonged to numerous dance groups and entertained family and friends with her gourmet meals, fabulous pies (perfect crust), homemade ice cream and chocolate popcorn (secret recipe)!
Helen was a member of Calvin Presbyterian Church for over 20 years and was involved in Bible study, Stephens ministry, greeter, deacon, elder, choir and children's ministry.
Helen is survived by daughters, Deanne (Tim), Lori; son, Jeff (Kari); seven grandchildren, Shawn, Mark (Kayla), Andy (Danylle), Joe (Anne), Rick, Nikita, Charmane (Bishop); and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Toby; son, David; sister, Margaret; and brothers, Bill and Lester.
A special thanks of gratitude to Magda, John, Odette, Helen and Jeny at Sylvan Adult Care Home for their loving care they showered on Helen these past 18 months.
Honoring Helen's request, there will be a private service for immediate family only.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Calvin Presbyterian Church (Tigard) or Elders in Action to support elder financial fraud awareness.
Please visit the guestbook portion of this site and enter a special message or memory. Thank you.
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