Helen Spence

Helen Spence, 79, of Girard, died at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 10, 2007 at Heritage Manor in Springfield. Helen was born on May 24, 1927 in Uehling, Nebraska, the daughter of Albert J. and Hazel Marsh Stenvers. She married Lester Lee Spence on September 30, 1956 in Omaha, Nebraska; he preceded her in death in 1999. Helen was employed as an engineer with Ameritech until her retirement in 1985. She was a member of Telephone Pioneers of America, the World Organization of China Painters and a former member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Helen was proud to have been the first female member of the Village Board of Chatham and was also a clerk with Ball Township. She enjoyed china painting and reading. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one daughter: Patricia June Spence; and one brother. She is survived by two daughters: Loy C. (husband, Donald) Gietl of Auburn and Barbara Ozer of Girard; three grandchildren: Kira Grabowski, Marc Gietl and Kaan Ozer; four great-grandchildren; three brothers; four sisters; and many nieces and nephews. Family will welcome friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 13, 2007 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremonies will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 14, 2007 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Pastor Ken Tegtmeier officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to: American Cancer Society, 1305 Wabash, Ste. J, Springfield, IL 62704.