My maternal grandmother, Helen Smith, passed away today after a long fight with Alzheimer’s disease.

She really hasn’t been with us for a few years, so my first feeling is one of relief. My 88-year-old grandfather had been taking care of her by himself, which I know was very difficult for him. She was recently diagnosed with cancer and had stopped eating a few days ago.

Two of my most vivid memories of my grandmother:

• how grateful she was that I stayed with her while walking around Expo ’86 in Vancouver while my uncle and grandfather sped ahead
• getting caught in her backyard using firecrackers to blow up my little brother’s Matchbox cars and plastic soldiers

I will update this post with her obituary after it’s published.

Smith, Helen M. Age 87 “A beautiful Swedish Lady” (nee Elmquist) on December 26, 2007. Survived by husband of 65 yrs., Donald L., children; Karen (Mike) Kingsbury, Gregory, Jeffrey (Joyce), Stacey (Richard) Kohner, and Linda (Dave) Arcand. 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Helen graduated from Johnson High School then went to work to help support her family. She worked at First National Bank where she met her husband. She was active at the old St. Paul Athletic Club, The Winter Carnival, and the Innijiska Club. Helen will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Visitation 10 AM with Memorial Service 11AM Wednesday, Jan. 2nd at GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN CHURCH CHAPEL, 700 Snelling Ave. So., St. Paul. Private interment. Memorials preferred to HealthEast Home Aides. Cremation Society of Minnesota Edina 952-924-4100