Helen Wise

Helen Lucile Wise, 94, Rockford, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2013, in her home. She was born February 28, 1918, in Winnebago, the daughter of Henry and Caroline (Strakeljahn) Weber.nbsp; Helen was a 1936 graduate of Winnebago High School. She married James E. Wise on July 26, 1941, in the parsonage of Messiah Lutheran Church and were married for 63 years when Jim passed away in 2004.nbsp; Helen was active in school functions including the Ellen Stiles Grade School PTA, where she served as president for many years.nbsp; She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader with her daughters.nbsp; Helen was an avid gardener and enjoyed picking and canning fruits and veggies,sharing her bounty with friends and family. She was an awesome cook and baker. Helen and Jim enjoyed playing Bingo, Friday night fish fries, and they were avid Cubs, Bulls, and Bears fans. She and Jim enjoyed many wonderful trips throughout the United States, especially those to Hawaii and Alaska.

Survived by her children, Michael (Leslie) Wise, Sally Cassaro, Susan (John) Rodgers and Jamie (Tim) Young; 6 grandchildren; 8 greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband, Jim; brothers, Bill, Harold, and Everett; sisters, Florence, Alice, Violet, and Malinda. Special thanks to her caregivers from hospice and her dear friend, Marilyn.nbsp; In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State Street, Rockford, 61107, Disabled Veterans, or the National USO.nbsp;

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am, Thursday, February 21, 2013, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Av. with Reverendnbsp;Krista Zimmerman officiating.nbsp; Burial in Willwood Burial Park.nbsp; Visitation from 10:00 am until time of service on Thursday at the funeral home. nbsp;Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.