Helen Joann Gasdorf

Helen earned a B.S. from Purdue, majoring in Biology and Chemistry, and an M.S. from ISU, where she furthered studies in biology and related disciplines, including animal physiology, immunology, animal behavior, genetics, ecology, herpetology, and parasitology. She was passionate about increasing acumen in her fields of study, and in years following, she continued education in related fields.

In 1960, Helen started working in biochemistry and microbiology at the USDA Agriculture Lab in Peoria, and in later years, she served as supervisor of the Laboratory Animal Facility. She retired in 2002. Over her tenure at the Lab, she contributed to numerous research papers and studies. She was also an avid volunteer over the period of her life; her work included Peoria Academy of Science (life long member; board of directors, 1971-1972), Herpetology Section of the Academy (founding member), Peoria Audubon Society, Illinois State Museum (archaeological field work), Wildlife Prairie Park, and Tazewell county animal shelter (TAPS). In 1987-1989, after being personally appointed by the mayor of Peoria, she assisted with the efforts for site selection and planning for the new Peoria animal shelter. One of her favorite volunteer opportunities was in 1984, where she worked with the New York Zoological Society on the green sea turtle research project in Costa Rica. Additionally, she taught nature classes to young people at Peoria’s Sun Foundation.

Helen was a consummate naturalist and a staunch advocate for environmental concerns and animal welfare. Her hobbies included fossil and shell collecting and bird watching. She was a lifelong cat lover. She got her first cat at the age of five, and throughout her life, she fostered many cats and was supportive of related activities. Helen traveled extensively to many destinations related to natural history and archaeology. Destinations included Africa (her favorite), Egypt, Australia, Europe, Mexico, Central and South America, and diverse locations in the United States.

Helen is survived by her son, Sieg Gasdorf, and her long-time partner, Bruce Horn.

Donations can be made in her name to TAPS animal shelter and Pets for Seniors. Helen will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Universalist Unitarian Church of Peoria on July 18th at 2:00pm.