Helen Neill Kirkwood, 86, of Nappanee, Ind., died on Jan. 9, 2015, at her residence from a long battle with cancer.
She was born on Dec. 10, 1928, in Dundee, Scotland, to Charles and Mary (Easton) Hill. Helen married John C. Kirkwood on August 8, 1952 at St. Andrew’s Church in Motherwell, Scotland.
In 1963, her and her husband John immigrated with their three young children to the United States. They settled in Benton Harbor, Mich., and were there until 1987 when the family moved to Nappanee. Helen worked for Fleetwood Avion Coach in Benton Harbor for 20 years. She was an elder in the Presbyterian Church in Benton Harbor. She had read the Bible 3 times. She was a member of the Eastern Star. Helen enjoyed her iPad and playing solitaire. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much.
Surviving are children: Yvonne (Steve) Reed, Nappanee, John (Marilyn) Kirkwood, Marion, Ind., and Neill (Pamela) Kirkwood, Nappanee; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters: Mary Bussey and Marjorie “Marj” Sleith, both of Naperville, Ill.; brothers: Charles (Barbara) Hill, Vero Beach, Fla., and Stephen (Marian) Hill of Wishaw, Scotland.
She was preceded in death by her husband; sisters: Charlotte Hill, Dorothy Carden, and brother: Alec Hill.
Helen’s wishes were to be cremated and friends and family may call from 3-6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16 at Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Memorial Service. Pastor Terry Tyler will officiate. Inurnment will follow later this year in Scotland.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Goshen Home Care and Hospice.