Date Of Birth: May 12, 1921
Date Of Death: April 3, 2010
Helen Barbara Manuel passed away on April 3, 2010 surrounded by her family. She was born on May 12, 1921 in Napoleon, North Dakota. On September 12, 1942 Helen married Wilbur O. Manuel, and moved with him to Flint, Michigan where they started their family. In addition to being the best mom in the world and a devoted wife, Helen participated in many organizations and developed a wonderful professional career that she was able to enjoy her entire life. She was a teacher, a designer clothier at The Carriage Shop in Grand Blanc, and a licensed esthetician. Helen also managed Ross Learning Foundations, a computer-assisted educational program for children in Flint, Michigan. Helen was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa sorority, and was honored three years in a row for the most volunteer hours. Helen will be best remembered by family and friends for her wonderful cooking (most notably her “secret recipe” potato salad and fried chicken!), her flare for decorating and entertaining, and her gracious hospitality. She gave unfailing support and encouragement in all endeavors to everyone, especially her family. Her incredible seamstress skills were shared with each of her grandchildren, who received a handcrafted Raggedy Ann or Andy; each great-grandchild was blessed with unique bedding and quilts created by Grossel. Upon her husband’s retirement, Helen and Wilbur moved to Florida where they lived for 29 years. They moved to Indianapolis in January 2009. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Christine and Joseph Baumgartner; oldest son, Randall Charles (Irene Peeler); granddaughter, Cynthia Ann Manuel; brothers, Leo and Victor Baumgartner; and sister, Alice Schlosser. Helen is survived by her husband, Wilbur; son, Dennis Lee (Darlene); daughters, Pamela Kristine Lemons (James) and Nadeen Rae Paliani; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grand children; sisters, Germaine Stokes, Clara Simon, Shirley Mathes; and brother, Joseph Baumgartner. Helen loved butterflies because they represent transformation; she has now been transformed to a new life. Services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6 at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street, with visitation one hour preceding the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Riley Mother and Baby Hospital, IU Foundation – IU Kenya Partnership / PO Box 660245, Indianapolis, IN 46266-0245.
Lisa Scott says
Pam, So sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. I know she was a very special lady. My love and prayers are with you.
Mag Galloway says
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as you celebrate Helen’s life and mourn her passing. May God grant you peace, healing, and understanding. I know you will continue to feel Helen’s beautiful presence as will the many other people whose lives she so graciously touched.
Much love,
Mag
Jo Ann Matory says
Pam and Jim,
Please know that you are in my prayers during this most difficult time as you grieve and search for understanding and acceptance.
Sincerely, Jo Ann
Karen S Norton Converse says
Pam, Jim and Family,
I am sorry to hear of this great ladies’ passing, and know she’s been a blessing in your lives.
Life is never quite the same without our mothers, though 10 years later I still feel my mothers presence every day. I wish the same for you.
With love, Karen
Mark Hoyer says
Pam and Jim, I am so sorry to hear about Helen’s recent passing. She indeed is one tough cookie. Thank you for introducing me to her. It was truly a privilege. May she now rest in God’s peace, and may you both find comfort in remembering her life.
Debbie Mitchell says
Pam and family, my deepest condolence at this time. I will pray for your comfort and strength. As one who knows, it always hurts but when you remember all the good times it makes things a little easier to handle. Time does heal. It’s something you can’t go under, or over, you have to go through it. God bless. Love ya PP!
Bill and Katrina Engle says
Hello Pam (and Jim), we want to express our condolances about your mom’s death. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Michael Trautman says
She was a gracious caring person and my family enjoyed our conversations and interactions with her.
Richard Lemons and Diana Banks says
Pam and Jim-
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know your mom was a very loving, tender, caring and amazing mother and grandmother. We were so sorry to hear of her recent illness. I certainly enjoyed meeting her on several occassions and knew she was a very special person. Know that you and your family are in our thoughts. We hope that the many wonderful and fond memories you have and the knowledge that she lovingly touched so many people will provide some comfort.
Diana Banks, Dick, Sam, Meg and Alex