Helen Kramer

Age 97, Of Stillwater & Minneapolis Passed away peacefully on October 2, 2009. Preceded in death by loving husband Henry, son Jonathan, sisters, Patsy Raudenbush, Caroline Ernst, and brother Schuyler C. Woodhull. Survived by children Timothy of Minneapolis, Andrew (Karen) of Marine on St. Croix, Jennifer Woodbridge of Port Townsend WA, grandchildren Mariko Kramer Roush (Mike), Chelsea, and many nieces and nephews. Helen was a woman with gentle disposition and strong core values - being positive, optimistic, active, and caring - which she applied to every situation and relationship. Born August 24, 1912 in Minneapolis, Helen attended Whittier, Jefferson Jr HS, West HS, and Northrop Collegiate. She earned a BA, cum laude from Smith College in 1934 and attended French Summer School U. of McGill, Montreal. She became a teacher specializing in remedial reading and taught at Spring Hill School, Litchfield CT; St. Margaret's, Waterbury CT; and San Luis Ranch School, Colorado Springs. Later attending the U of MN, she earned a MA in education. Helen made several trips to Europe, two as a librarian on ocean liners. Helen was a lifetime volunteer in her church and community. She was an early board member of MN Assoc. for Retarded Children, and the YWCA. She was active in the Prayer Group, Women's Association, and one of the first two women elders in Westminster Church. Helen loved music, teaching piano for many years. She regularly attended MN Orchestra concerts where her husband was a violinist. She also enjoyed gardening, reading, theatre, dance, and learning. She will be dearly missed by her family and all who knew her. Memorial service 11AM Friday, October 9 in the chapel at WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 1200 Marquette Ave, Minneapolis. Helen wished any memorials to go to Westminster Church, First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater, or any environmental or mission group.