Obituary of Helen King

Helen Wright King, born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on September 19, 1921, passed peacefully June 10, 2019 at the age of 97. Small in stature; strong in resolve, her love for her family and friends was felt by those she met throughout her life. Her radiant smile, infectious laugh, interest in life and acceptance of all was who she was; a true gentle giant. Helen worked for the Prudential Insurance Company; retiring in 1979 to pursue her love of travel both in the United States and Europe; experiencing many wonderful trips and relationships. After doing less travel, she volunteered and advocated for the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Also an avid reader, she was deeply involved with the Andersen Horticultural Library at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum; again volunteering until her health caused her to “retire” from these true passions. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Benjamin and Alma; brothers, Ben and Tom; sister-in-law, Mary (Ben); nephew-in-law, Bernie (Susan) and niece-in-law, Nancy (Don). She is survived by her daughter, Virginia and son-in-law, John; sister-in-law, Jane (Tom); nieces and nephews: Susan, Kitty (Peyton), Ben (Donna), Don and Tom  (Laurie); her great-nieces and nephews, Elizabeth (Amit), Leah (Torben), Jenny (Andrew), Jamie (Olea), Brad (Daisy), and Ben (Michelle); great-great-nieces and nephews: Ella, Esme, Abi, Leilani, Helen, Clara, Sofia, Ian, Blake and Hunter. The family expresses their deep appreciation to all of the staff at Castle Ridge Care Center in Eden Prairie for providing love and care to Helen during her two year residency. With their help, guidance and support, each staff person created an easier road for Helen and her family to travel. The family will hold a private interment at a future date. Memorials preferred to the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Friends of the Andersen Horticultural Library or Castle Ridge Care Center in Eden Prairie.