Helen Marie (Panek) Schmuecker

Helen Marie (Panek) Schmuecker, 82, went to rest with the Lord on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, while surrounded by family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin in 2009. They were married on Sept. 16, 1950, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. They lived and worked on their family farm for 55 years.

She was a loving mother and friend to her eight children: Dean (Becky), Keith (Debbie), David (Della), Kathy (Bill Hanes), Danny (Nancy), John (Becki), Bill (Lisa) and Kristy (Chad) Christoph; 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters, Charlotte Starkey and Mary Flickinger.

The feeling of loss to her family are failed by words, only to have known is to understand. Her terrific love and strength was the glue that saw everyone through the good and bad. Helen’s memory will live on in the hearts and thoughts of her devoted family and friends.

Public visitation will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, at Phillips Funeral Home in Blairstown. A private family funeral service will be held on Monday. Interment will be held at St. Patrick and St. Paul Cemetery near Watkins. Phillips Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be left at www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com.

Published Jan. 18, 2013 in The Gazette