There was a great banquet in Heaven Sunday, March 12, 2017 when Helen Anzalone walked through St. Peter's gate.   Many friends and relatives have been awaiting her arrival, especially her dearest friend, Jesus. The daughter of Julius and Elsie Speigel, Helen was born December 2, 1915 in Lansing, Michigan and, at the age of 3, moved to Racine, Wisconsin with her parents and sister Lila (Mueckler). Helen met her future husband, Carmen, first as neighbors and were better acquainted through her friendships with Carmen's sisters. They were a strange duo for their time, Carmen, an Italian-Catholic, and Helen a German-Lutheran. Their friendship grew and a strong bond of love brought them together in marriage on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1938 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They cultivated their spiritual lives at Sacred Heart, Helen converting early in their marriage so they could raise a family in the faith. Life-long members, they enjoyed preparing the chapel for daily mass and assisting with gardening in the church yard. Helen was part of Sacred Heart's prayer tree ministry until December 2016, taking time daily, to pray for the special needs of parish members. She loved making manicotti and was known to quietly bring them to friends and neighbors during times of sickness or grief. Without words she taught people how to truly love.

Helen worked different jobs throughout her life, but being a homemaker was her true calling. She and Carmen dedicated their lives to the care of their daughters, Carol (John) Steinmetz, Cynthia Wilkinson, and Carmen (Joel) Powell as well as her nephew, Max Mueckler. Helen was a doting grandmother and formed strong relationships with all of her grandchildren: Marc (Vicky) Keleske, Bryan Keleske, Ted Keleske, Chris (Willie) Mayer, Sandy (Jeff) Piper, Jennifer (John) Weber, Stephen Maroda, and Elicia (Tony) Harris.  She was thrilled at each arrival of her nine great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

Helen's life of 101 years included many celebrations. She hosted family holiday gatherings and Thursday night spaghetti dinners, fondly known as 'pasta night'. Getting together weekly with friends since high school for a game of schafkopf was a joyful afternoon. They always had a good time, laughing and celebrating life. One of Helen's favorite bits of advice was "Have Some Fun" and she lived it.

A quiet soul with deep faith and a generous heart, Helen was always willing to lend a hand. She and Carmen followed the teachings of Jesus, opening their home to many family members and friends through the years, never turning anyone away. Whether a short stay for a traveler, or an extended stay for someone in need, there was always a room that included friendly care and a warm dinner.

Helen made many new friends, when she moved into her apartment at Marian Housing. Weekly bingo and po-ke-no games with fellow residents, friends, and family were common as Helen embraced her new home.   It was there that Helen and Steven Taleck, Sr. became the best of friends; each supporting the other as they grew in years.

A private burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery. Helen lived with great love and sincerity. She taught by example in word and deed. One of her favorite past-times was sending letters and greeting cards for all occasions. In honor of Helen, show an act of kindness to an unexpected recipient, share a smile with a stranger, or send a card to someone special in your life. And of course "Go have some fun!"

The family would like to thank the staff at Lakeshore Manor and Ascension – All Saints for their compassionate care.

Service Details

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Private service at Calvary Cemetery