Helen J. Jarl

Helen J. Jarl, 96, of Rockford, IL passed away Sunday, November 27, 2022. She was born May 21, 1926, in Fennimore, WI the daughter of Delbert and Sylvia Olmstead. Helen worked as the secretary for plant operations at OSF St. Anthony Hospital for over 35 years. A job she truly enjoyed. Helen was a hard worker and had a generous spirit, she would help anyone in need. Her giving nature carried over to the animal world. Helen took in many strays, and she also made sure the birds and squirrels were taken care of. In her younger years Helen was involved in the Girls Missionary Guild at Elim Baptist Church. Helen will be deeply missed.

Helen is survived by her daughters, LaRae (Bill) Larson and Leanna (Gary) Steele; grandchildren, Brandon (Kate) Steele and Kelli (Dan) Steele; great grandchild, Gabriel; sister, Ruth Froeliger; nieces Sheri Minnick and Pam Cannon; companion, Socks; and dear friend, Carol Vermilyae, whom the family will be forever grateful of her support. Helen is preceded in death by her parents and ex husband, Leonard O. Jarl.

A gathering will be held Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Burial at Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102or Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, 111 N 1st St, Rockford, IL 61107.