Helen (Giroff) Lalioff, 86
Gone from this world but forever in our hearts… Helen passed peacefully Saturday, December 17th after a 39-year struggle with the effects of a brain aneurism, Parkinson’s and diabetes.
Her life was marked by a combination of love and commitment to her family, loyalty to her friends, a keen sense of humor, a commanding can-do attitude and a spirit that had no tolerance for foolishness but embraced life with a force that was indomitable!
A Haughville native and first generation American, Helen was immersed in the cultural Heritage of her Macedonian parents and Eastern Orthodox Christian faith. For many years, she was an active member of her church, enjoyed singing in the choir, ethnic dances, picnics, conventions and bake sales. She relished attending theatrical and musical events, travel, entertaining and of course, the Indy 500. After 35-plus years of service with LaRue D. Carter Memorial Hospital, her retirement allowed for more time to indulge her passion for reading and time spent in the sun with her beloved four-legged “children”.
Helen was an intelligent, generous individual whose strength, compassion and laughter will continue to be felt in our memories – guiding us through this life until we meet again.
Survived by her nieces and nephews: Deborah Giroff, Catherine Giroff Reed, John Giroff, Brenda (Joseph) Giroff Johnson, Donna (Jeremy) Mikesell Tolan, Christina Mikesell, Nicholas Giroff II, Nichole Giroff, Haley Johnson, Richard Johnson, Blake Tolan, Landon Tolan, numerous cousins and life-long friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Association at www.act.alz.org or mail to Alzheimer’s Association P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090 or Indianapolis Humane Society at www.indyhumane.org or mail to Humane Society 7929 N. Michigan Road Indianapolis, IN 46268 in her honor.
A celebratory gathering will be announced later this Spring. Thank you to all for your kind words and generosity. In the interim, do not mourn her loss. Rather, keep her laughter and joyous memory in your hearts.
Memory eternal, memory eternal, memory eternal.
God bless and keep you our dearest aunt.
Patty says
Helen was an inspiration to me. It was a joy working with her through the church. I know she will be missed by many.
Jim Babcock says
I was sad to see Helen’s obituary today. For many years I had the privilege of representing her. Even in difficult times she would have a kind word and a positive spirit. I can even remember her voice as she would tell a funny story. A wonderful women of faith
Sincerely
Jim Babcock
Cathy Holdt says
Sorry to read about this today. I worked at Larue Carter when Helen did and missed hearing her opinions and ideas after she retired. Peace to her family. Cathy
Rachel and Chris Kirages says
We were so sorry to hear about Nuna Helen’s passing. She was an amazing woman.
Thanks to Debbie for her dedication and the support she gave Helen in the past few years.
xxoo
Rachel and Chris
Chris and Mary Kirages says
We are so sorry to hear about Helen’s death. She was a special friend through the years. I have known her longer than anyone…
She will be missed.