Helen I. Zerbe

Helen Idessa Straining Zerbe, peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on December 29, 2024, at the age of 86. Born August 1,1938, the daughter of the late Charles Straining, Jr. and June Edwards. She was

preceded in death by her sister the late Carole Lee Straining Swartz, her brother the late John Jack

Straining, her son Eugene B. Zerbe and grandson Chase Zerbe.

Helen was born in Harrisburg, raised in Shipoke. She attended John Harris High School. She was a cook for Martzy’s Tavern before moving on to Reliable Office Products where she was employed as an Accountant and Receptionist.

After her Divorce, Helen’s life overflowed with love of raising her children. With the support from her West Side friends and later her Cole Crest friends, that she always called family.

She was a die hard Rollers fan, a beacon of warmth and generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand or

a listening ear. Helen’s heart overflowed with joy and devotion to her family. She looked forward to her

monthly breakfast, and was excited to see who would be able to make it each month.

Helen’s memory will be forever cherished by her brother Charles Straining, and her children, Curt Zerbe

(Tonya), Dave Zerbe (Deb), Lori Zerbe (Benny), Tim Zerbe (Janice), James Zerbe (D’Juan). Her

grandchildren Nita, Tasha, Karen, Ashley, Rhen, Jessica, Jennifer, Shameka, Sheena, Timothy Kristin, Jasmine, James, Steven, Terri and 20 great grandchildren.

Helen’s later years were filled with the presence of her ever growing family, grandchildren, great grandchildren; started flowing!!! As she would always say.

(Love you to the Moon and Back).

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 10:00 am at East Harrisburg Cemetery, 2260 Herr Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103. A Repast will follow at Bethesda Mission Community Center, 1438 Herr Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103 (Rear Entrance.)