Helen J. Buck

Helen J. Buck, 90, of South Bend, passed away Friday evening, February 19, 2016.

Helen was born March 1, 1925 in South Bend, a daughter of the late Tom and Lela (Swift) Helpingstine. She was a 1943 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in South Bend.

During Helen’s life, besides South Bend, she also lived in Broadview, Illinois, San Diego, California and Mishawaka. At one time, along with her husband Gene, they owned and operated a Tastee Freez in River Park.

Helen was preceded in death by husbands, Gene Cosby and Merle Buck; a daughter, Sharon Ryan; a sister, Betty Casper; and step children, Merle Buck, Jr. and Shirley Sparks.

Helen is survived by grandchildren, Shannon (Greg) Siota and Shawn Ryan and great grandchildren, Amber and Kendra Siota all of California. Also surviving are step children, Clifford (Addie) Buck of South Bend, Ron (Hope) Buck of South Bend, Kenny Buck of Indianapolis and Barbara (Dave) Warstler of Gurnee Mills, Illinois; a close friend and step-daughter, Mary Buck of Mishawaka; and a sister, Virginia (Lyle) Thompson of Dayton, Ohio; many nieces, nephews and friends; and special friends, Tina Tepe and Rick Bellman.

Helen’s family would like to thank the staff of the Sanctuary at Holy Cross and especially Shelli and Katie for the wonderful care.

Private family visitation and services will be held in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, Mishawaka. Burial will be at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger.

Memorials are suggested to Pet Refuge or the charity of the donor’s choice. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.