Helen Elaine Vanvickle

Helen Elaine VanVickle, age 89, of Pillager ascended to her heavenly home on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 in Staples at Lakewood Health System. Helen was born on April 2, 1931 in Saginaw, MIchigan to Roy and Lela (Cole) Swaim. She married Eugene VanVickle on November 17, 1951. Helen was an active vibrant woman who enjoyed life to the fullest. Early in their marriage, she and Gene traveled from Minnesota to Louisville, Kentucky by motorcycle, having her oldest son LeRoy ride behind her while her younger son Brad rode in front of Gene. She loved to spend time outdoors with her boys doing whatever they were up to including snowmobiling, motorcycling, 4 wheeling, etc. She also loved attending sporting events watching her sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren play sports. After reaching retirement, Helen and Gene traveled all over the United States by RV and motorcycle. Helen was of strong faith and loved the First Baptist Church of Pillager where she attended for almost 70 years. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Left to cherish Helen's memory are her sons, Brad (LaVonne) and Brian (Janet) both of Pillager; sisters, Charlotte Brattlund of Pillager and Constance (Phillip) Cook of Florida; 7 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Helen is preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband of 49 years, Eugene; son, LeRoy; an infant daughter Valerie; brother David Swaim; great grandson, Mason VanVickle. In honor of Helen's memory, please wear her favorite color, purple to the service. Funeral service for Helen will be held on Monday, March 29, 2021 at 2PM at First Baptist Church in Pillager. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 28, 2021 from 2-4PM at First Baptist Church in Pillager, and one hour prior to the service Monday. Interment will be at Wildwood Cemetery in Pillager.