Helen C. Perino

She was born June 19, 1918 in West Frankfort, IL, a daughter of George and Mary Ennis Wagner. She married Samuel R. Perino on January 28, 1939 in Peoria. He preceded her in death on October 18, 1979 in Peoria.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, three sisters, and one granddaughter.

Surviving are one sister, Kathleen Hefley of Scottsdale, AZ; one daughter, Barbara (Jim) Sumner of Peoria; one son, Dr. Anthony (Pat) Perino of Peoria; five grandchildren, Bart (Beth) Wyss of Indianapolis, IN, Gina Perino of Brooklyn, NY, Gregory (Tina) Perino of Cody, WY, Ryan (Renee Atherton) Wyss of Peoria, and Robb (Carrie) Wyss of Springfield; and five great-grandchildren.

Helen worked as a dental assistant for many years.

Her greatest passion was her love for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was warm, compassionate, patient, and selfless. Helen was best known for her smile and her artistry both in the kitchen and in the garden.

She was involved with RSVP and a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Peoria.

A funeral mass will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at Holy Family Catholic Church. Fr. John Grigus will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria.

View Helen’s life story at www.woolsey-wilton.com.