Helen W. Matelski, 95, formerly of Gaylord, passed away Tuesday, November 17, 2020, at her daughter’s home in Hastings, Michigan.
She was born to Martin and Helen (Fluder) Jurek on February 19, 1925, in Gaylord, Michigan.
Helen loved Northern Michigan, car adventures, going on walks, and just being in the great outdoors. She would tell anyone who would listen, about the wildlife she saw, especially deer, turkey, or bear. Helen was quite a jokester and an avid card player with questionable tactics. She loved to laugh, and there was always a smile on her face. She looked forward to spending time with her family and friends, cooking, and baking while listening to Polish music. Helen was also a faithful Catholic.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph; and daughter, Bonnie Taylor.
Helen is survived by her children, Sharon (Louis) Valich of Arlington, TX, James (Lisa) Matel of Auburn Hills, MI, Cynthia (Phil) Lancaster of Hastings, MI, Rebecca (David) Arwine of Troy, MI; son-in-law, Tom Taylor of Gilbert, AZ; grandchildren, Christine Taylor, Charles Valich, Dana Valich, Brian Lancaster, and Joseph Arwine; seven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, November 27, 2020, at St. Mary Cathedral, 606 N. Ohio Ave., Gaylord, MI, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or a Mass in her memory at St. Mary Cathedral, Gaylord, MI.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home & Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49735.
www.nelsonsfuneralhome.com
7 comments on “Helen W. Matelski”
Matelski family, So sorry to hear of Aunt Helen’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sending our sympathy to all of you. Aunt Helen was a very special and unique person and we all miss her hearty laughter and love of life. We are sure she is enjoying her reunion with Uncle Joe, Bonnie, her parents and siblings. Til we meet again, rest in peace in the comfort of God’s embrace.
Mike and Connie Zaborowski
Helen was a great baker and always found humor in life. Condolences to her family and friends.
Sharon and siblings, Your mom always had time to talk to us about updates and what was happening in our families. May she rest in peace with the heavenly angels. Diane Prusakiewicz Wiechec
Peace and light Mrs. Matelski, one of my mamma’s dearest friends. I believe you have completed the circle of beauties that have gone before you. Hug my Mom for me, I’m sure she has a glass of wine ready for you. The Royal Linen girls are rocking again.
Hugs and Prayers to the Matelski Family, Aunt Helen always had a smile on her Face, Always gave a big smooch and a big hug, She has lots of Family waiting for her in Heaven, I’m sure Grandma Isabelle will be glad to see her!
I saw her picture and smiled. Aunt Helen’s was the first place I shot a deer. It was 30 years ago this month. Living so close to my grandparents, she was like another grandma to us kids that spent the summers on the Burzynski farm. Glad to know that she is now in the arms of Jesus.