Helen Joan Penk

July 25, 1932 - February 5, 2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Helen Joan Penk on February 5, 2025, at the age of 92 and a half. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, whose kindness, warmth, and strength touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on July 25, 1932, in St. Paul, MN, Helen spent her early years enjoying church activities and fun times with her classmates, forming lifelong friendships and a deep sense of faith that guided her throughout her life. She attended nursing school and, soon after graduation, married Gerald (Jerry) L. Penk in 1953. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and shared dreams. They had three children: Deborah (Richard), Dave (Sue), and Ruth (Bob), for whom she cared deeply.

One of her most fulfilling jobs was working with the American Red Cross as a traveling nurse on the Bloodmobile. These teams of nurses would journey throughout the Pacific Northwest, helping small communities to keep the blood supply strong. She always had an ear for listening or a shoulder to lean on during difficult times, and she was the best secret keeper. She also loved puzzles of all kinds-jigsaw puzzles and the puzzles of life-always approaching challenges with patience, determination, and a sharp mind, relying on her faith in God that things would turn out "just how they should."

Both Helen and Jerry shared a love for gardening and traveling. They found joy in planning their garden together and exploring new places side by side. Their favorite trips were to China and Greece, where they embraced the culture, history, and adventure with excitement. Helen was a proud and loving grandmother to her six grandchildren: Matthew, Risha, Ethan, Camille, Stuart, and Goose. She also cherished her role as a great-grandmother to Brecken and Berkley, delighting in the joy and energy they brought into her life. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, who passed away in June of 2007.

A service to celebrate Helen's life will be held at a date and time not yet determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund in her honor.

Helen's love, kindness, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.