Helen Ketchpaw

Helen was born in Denver, Colorado, in 1933, the daughter of Bennie and Frances Arellano. She was a longtime resident of Ventura County, where she built a life defined by strength, determination, and grace.

Above all, Helen was a strong and resilient woman. Rising from humble beginnings, she worked her way to the top of the corporate ladder through perseverance and dedication. Without the benefit of a high school diploma, she nonetheless excelled in every position she held, steadily climbing each rung through hard work and unwavering resolve.

Her career included work with Hospice in Santa Paula, the Santa Paula Police Department, and as a receptionist at Raytheon, a major U.S. defense contractor. She also served as secretary to Ross Perot, founder and chief executive officer of Electronic Data Systems, who later became a billionaire and ran for President of the United States in 1992 and 1996. These professional accomplishments reflected not only her capability, but also her formidable character and inner strength.

Beyond her professional life, Helen was an excellent cook and entrepreneur. She owned and operated her own Mexican restaurant for many years and was especially known for her beloved Spanish rice. She enjoyed fashion and always dressed stylishly for the times. Most of all, she cherished time spent with her family.

Helen will be remembered for her dignified, dedicated, and passionate spirit.

Her children, among her greatest achievements, survive her: Francine Cobos (husband Bob), Debra Acevedo (husband Arnold), Lorayne Brady (husband Rudy), and her son, Robert Frutos (wife Bonnie).

She is also survived by her brother, James Arellano; eight grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Philbert Arellano, and her grandsons, Johnny Robert Frutos and Rudy Brady.