Irene Helgeson Breed

Irene was born in Los Angeles, California, April 4, 1929, and was the daughter of Wallace and Lola Wells Helgeson. Irene grew up in El Monte, California, graduated from El Monte High School and then attended Whittier College, Whittier, California. She then graduated from the University of the Pacific, in Stockton, California. Upon graduation Irene served youth and children in Kaneohe, Hawaii, working in a three year missionary program of the United Methodist Church.

While in Hawaii, Irene married Allen E. Breed. They returned to California where Allen continued his education at a theological seminary. Irene received a teaching credential from San Jose State University in Elementary Education. She taught grades first through fourth in Gilroy, California where she was well versed in sign language and spent some time working with the deaf. After many years in California, Irene and Allen returned to Hawaii.

Irene was very involved with United Methodist Women serving on various committees. She taught Sunday school for children as well. Irene loved to read, attend symphonies, concerts and traveling. She greatly loved her family, grandchildren and friends.

Survived by her husband, Reverend Allen E. Breed of Columbus, Indiana; son, Allen (Sandra) Breed of St. Helena, California; daughters, Dr. Candace (Douglas) Adams of Sacramento, California, Joy (David) Grout of Seymour, Indiana and April Edde of Modesto, California; grandchildren, Evan Adams, Maile and Mikaela Grout.

A Memorial service will be held on Friday, June 12th at 10 a.m. at the Four Seasons Retirement Center Chapel. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.myers-reed.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Myers-Reed Chapel on 25th St., Columbus, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Petersville United Methodist Church or The United Methodist Women’s fund in Columbus, Indiana, 47203 or Keolumana United Methodist Church, 1425 Keolu Drive, Kailua, Hawaii 96734-4149.

www.myers-reed.com