Mary "Helen" Kreiner

In Loving Memory of Mary “Helen” Kreiner

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary “Helen” Kreiner on April 25, 2026. Helen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, whose warmth and humor touched everyone who knew her. She was born on February 17, 1938, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard (Dick) Kreiner. Both were deeply devoted to one another. He lovingly referred to her as Wonder Woman and St. Helen. They eloped on September 8, 1957, and Helen’s hot pink wedding dress became one of her favorite stories to tell.

Helen was the beloved daughter of Mary (Aud) and James Bernard Ellis. She was predeceased by her siblings Angela Silanskis, James Ellis, and Joseph Ellis.

Helen was a dedicated and loving mother to her six children: Richard Kreiner, Jr. (Margo), David Kreiner (Enid), John Kreiner (Rachelle), Nancy Black (Steve), Chrissy Winer, and Andrew Kreiner (Marianne). Her family continued to grow in the best way, and she took pride in her 17 grandchildren; Stephanie, Melissa, Meghan, Holly, Shannon, Zachary, Courtney, Lauren, Kurt, Alexander, Olivia, Samuel, Adam, Dylan, Presley, Nick, and Camden as well as her 11 great-grandchildren: Aaron, Lily, Siena, Jude; Jacquelyn, Melanie, Allegra, Oswald (Ozzy), Hope, Dylan, and Dino. She also shared close bonds with many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Helen’s home was the center of family life. She took on every role it required including chauffeur, short order cook, term paper typist, organizer, and listener with care. She was an exceptional baker and a wonderful cook, and loved working in her kitchen. She also loved working in her yard on Sunset Avenue and had a habit of rearranging the furniture just often enough to keep everyone on their toes.

A longtime member of St. Agnes Church in Catonsville, Helen’s faith was an important part of her life. She had a natural gift for conversation and could connect with just about anyone. People were drawn to her sense of humor, her openness, and the ease with which she made them feel welcome.

Helen is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry her memory forward in their daily lives and family traditions.