She was born May 2, 1922 in Ashland, IL the daughter of Hugh and Ethel Foreman Quinley. She married Gale H. Ekstrand in Peoria on January 10, 1948. He preceded her in death on November 16, 2004.
Helen was survived by one daughter, Cheri Harsh of Creve Coeur and son Daniel of Peoria. Cheri has a daughter Michelle Wagner, with three grandchildren, Brooke, Brianna, and Brynn. Dan is married to Betty (Jackson) Ekstrand, formerly of Washington, IL, with a daughter, Kimberly Sturch married to James E. Sturch, and a grandson, Dalton. Also surviving is one brother, Richard (Donna) Quinley of Pekin.
She is also preceded in death by her parents; one granddaughter, Kelli Ann and one great-grandson, Dylan James; one sister, Mildred Quinley Robinson; and one brother, Robert Quinley.
Helen worked for several years for Caterpillar Tractor Co. in East Peoria Plant in the former Research Department.
She was very active in her youth and played sports, and loved to dance. She and Gale had a passion for the card game of Bridge. They were in several clubs and played several times a month. They were both “Life Masters” at the game. They also bowled in various leagues in their earlier years. She was also active in philanthropic organizations in her younger years.
Helen was a beautician for many years with her sister, Mildred Robinson.
Visitation will be held at Remmert Funeral Home on Thursday, March 23, 2017 from 11:00- 12:00pm. A graveside service will follow at Springdale Cemetery in Peoria.
Memorials may be made to the Central Illinois Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
To view Helen’s memorial page or to leave an online condolence please go to www.remmertfuneralhome.com.
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