Helen Lorraine Petkus

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter A. Petkus, Col USAF (Ret); daughter, Lorraine A. Villarreal; son, James W. Petkus; parents, Frances and Stanley Aident; and her sister, Dorothy Vargo.

She is survived by her children, Lynn R. Petkus, Kacey Petkus and Sydney Lanier; son-in-law, Guadalupe "Lou" Villarreal, Col USAF (Ret); Goddaughter and niece, Kathi Crabtree; grandsons, Chris Petkus, and David W. Villarreal, Col USAF; great-daughter-in-law, Katheryn S. Villarreal; great-grandchildren, Chase Alexander, Mila Lorraine, Finnian Pierce and Morley Francis Villarreal; granddaughter, Lisa M. Brown; and great-granddaughters, Madeline Grace and Lilyan Marie Brown.

Helen Lorraine Aident was born in Gary, Indiana and she graduated from Lew Wallace High School at the young age of 16. Three days after graduation she started her first job at Carnegie Steel Mills as a bookkeeper where she worked until her marriage. During her early years she took lessons and learned to play the bass accordion. She became so proficient that she was part of a trio group that played at social gatherings and church events.

She met the love of her life, Walt, at a church picnic during the time he was on leave from active duty. They dated and married on April 1, 1944, in South Bend, Indiana. Walt's military career had the family live in several states and overseas. During their travels they made many lifelong friends and Helen was very active hosting social functions. She was an excellent cook and well known as a baker. She was a loving wife and mother to her children. Helen and Walt became residents of Williamsburg in 1987. They made many friends and were ardent golfers. Helen was an excellent golfer and participated in ladies' tournaments.

Helen's legacy of unconditional love will live on through her family and friends. She will always be dearly missed and will stay forever in our hearts. Fly free like a butterfly and shine brightly like a diamond my dear.

Helen was a member of St Bede Catholic Church. A memorial mass will be held on Thursday, July 13 at 11:00 AM, St. Bede Catholic Church 3686 lronbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

A special thank you for the loving care given by her caregivers Novia, Kerrin, Debbie and Diana. They were such a blessing to her and her family during the period Helen was in full-time home care. Also, we want to acknowledge the professional and caring service provided by the Riverside Hospice nursing and administrative staff.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com for the Petkus family.