Helen Westberg

Obituary of Helen Westberg HancockHelen M. (Hill) Westberg, 98, a resident of Hancock passed away Wednesday morning November 9, 2011, at the Winona House of Portage Pointe, which had been her home for the past seven years.Helen was born on October 24, 1913, in Painesdale, MI, a daughter of the late John S. and Maria (Vayrynen) Hill. She was a graduate of Painesdale High School with the class of 1932. After graduation she went to Chicago for a short time and then moved to Detroit where she initially worked as a nanny. In Detroit she met John A. Westberg. They were married on November 2, 1935.The couple resided in Detroit where Helen was employed at Hudson's Department Store. In 1976 they moved to Hancock and John died on November 10, 1981.Helen worked as a salesclerk at Vertin's in Houghton. Two of her co-workers were Sylvia Pikkarainen and Cecelia Luttinen, a childhood friend, who were to become her housemates at Portage Pointe. Another housemate in Winona House was Leona Sleeman. They became fast friends. Helen was an active member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Chassell, participating in WELCA and sewing with the church quilters. She enjoyed traveling and, with her friend Siiri Malstrom, was able to journey to many countries around the world. She was active throughout her life, enjoying golf and learning to swim after she was 60 years old.Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, her sister Helmi and her brothers Arne and Bill.Surviving are: Her sisters: Elvi (Rafael) Saviniemi of Southfield, MI and Mayme Frantti of ChassellHer nephew and nieces: Bill (Linda) Hill, Mary (Marty) Jurgensen, Carol (Dale) Karpp, Ann Saviniemi, Lois (John) Sefcovic, Sharon Weller and Terrie (Barry) Smale. She is also survived by great-nieces and nephews, cousins in Finland and many good friends.Funeral services for Helen will be held 11 am Wednesday, November 16, 2011, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Chassell with Rev. Ron Strobel to officiate. Burial will be in the Mtn. View Cemetery of South Range. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday, November 16, 2011, from 10 am until time of services.In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests memorials to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or the Activity Fund at Portage Pointe.To view Helen's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Chassell has been assisting the family with the arrangements.Service Information To send flowers to the family of Helen Westberg, please visit Tribute Store