Helen K. Jansen

Helen Kathryn Jansen, age 92, of Grand Rapids, passed away early Friday morning, October 9, 2015. Helen was born in the summer of 1923 in Flint, MI to Nathaniel and Ella James who precede her in death along with her husband Thomas who passed away in 1952. Also preceding are her two sisters Jane Wood and Rheta Nevis as well as her brother Nathaniel James. Helen will be lovingly remembered by her son Thomas and his wife Shirley. Helen was very proud of her two grandsons Andrei and Catalin and their accomplishments in the Boy Scouts of America, attaining Eagle Scout Rank. Helen proudly served her country in the United States Navy during World War 2 as an Aircraft Mechanic and Machine Gun assembler. Her commitment to the armed forces continued through her volunteerism at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans and with her Life membership in WAVES National (Women of the Sea Services). Following her service time in the Navy, she obtained her nursing degree and enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a nurse at both Blodgett and Mary Free Bed hospitals. Helen was an accomplished sailor and enjoyed sailing her small boat on Reeds Lake. She was also an avid snow skier joining the National Ski Patrol and Silver Streak Ski Society at the Canonsburg Ski Area. Helen was also an active member and volunteer at both Meijer Gardens and the John Ball Zoo. A Funeral Service in celebration of Helen’s life, with military honors, will be held at 5pm, Thursday October 15, 2015 at the Reyers North Valley Chapel with pastor Derek Schultz officiating. A visitation will begin prior to the funeral at 3pm. Helen will be laid to rest with her husband in a private interment service at Resurrection Cemetery. In respect of Helen’s love for her pets, and her commitment to the Armed Forces, family requests that any memorial contribution made in Helens memory be directed to the Humane Society of West Michigan or to The Friends of Michigan Veterans Homes, Inc.