Obituary of Helen T. Bendoski

Born July 6, 1921 in Brazil, Indiana to Oda and Clara (Miller) Taylor and passed away January 28, 2010 in Tacoma, Washington. Helen is survived by her loving son, Pat (Gayle) Johnson; three step-children, William (Kris) Johnson, Cathie (Roger) Grayson, Michael (BeBe) Johnson; two grandchildren, Craig (Jodi) Johnson, Kimberly (Phillip) DeBord; three great-grandchildren, Matthew DeBord, Bryce Johnson, Blake Johnson; brother, Robert (Norma) Taylor of Fresno, CA; sister, Rosalie Skiles of LaFayette, IN; numerous extended family and friends in WA and CA. Helen and her son moved from Crawfordsville, IN to Fresno, CA in 1953. Helen worked for North American Aviation Company and later for Rancher’s Cotton Oil until her retirement. Helen was a member, for more than 60 years, and past President of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. Helen also was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 45 years and served as Worthy Matron of Concordia Chapter in 1969. While in Fresno, Helen attended St. Luke’s Methodist Church – Palm Avenue Community Church, and lived in Westlake Park. Helen moved to Tacoma, WA in 2005 to be close to her Washington family. She enjoyed her time in the Laurel House Assisted Living facility and attending Life Center Church. Helen was a loving mother, grandmother, and “Nana.” Her life was full of sorrows and joys, and she brightened the lives of all she touched. She will be greatly missed by her large and loving family. Service to be held 10 AM Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Palm Avenue Community Church, 222 East Fountain Way - Fresno, CA 93704. Viewing one hour prior to service. Private Family Interment will take place at Fresno Memorial Gardens, Fresno; CA. Donations can be made to the Tacoma-Pierce County Chaplaincy, PO Box 65048, University Place, WA 98464 or Haiti Relief, www.convoyofhope.org. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center in University Place, WA 253-566-1008 and Farewell Funeral Services in Fresno, CA, 559-440-0484.