Helen (Radich) Spallacci ~ May 1946 – April 2026 

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Helen Spallacci of Superior, WI, formerly of Duluth on April 10th from complications due to bladder cancer and memory issues.  Deeply mourned by siblings, Mary (Steve) Jones, Suzy (Warren) Wagness, Bill Radich, and many nieces and nephews. Helen and her husband Jim were godparents to most of their nieces and nephews.  They cherished their role as godparents and never forgot birthdays, Christmas, or any special occasion. 

Helen was predeceased by her husband in August 2024.  Together since their first date in February of 1962, we knew Helen could not go on without her husband and best friend, Jim. One could not exist without the other.  Helen was also predeceased in death by her parents, Mike and Helen Radich; siblings, Mike (Riley) Radich, and Barbara (B.J.) Thomas; in-laws “Big” Jim and Theresa Spallacci; brother-in-law, Vince Spallacci, sister-in-law, Nina and Nina’s husband, Larry Seppi. 

Helen was employed at Halvor Lines for 40 plus years and following retirement, she and Jim enjoyed going to the movies, listening to jazz music with friends, cooking, and going for daily power walks.  She was a voracious reader and movie goer. Helen was an incredible cook and hosted over 50 Christmas Eve get togethers at her impeccably decorated home. She was an avid walker and up until the time of her health worsened, she and Jim walked five miles a day.  Helen was a loving wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was happiest when she was with family sharing a meal she had so lovingly prepared.   

The family wishes to send a heartfelt thank you to the Memory Care Staff at New Perspectives in Superior, WI. Helen will be remembered by New Perspectives staff for her “feisty” and “spirited” personality.  They took incredible care of her and made her happy and comfortable.  Thank you to the incredible nurses and chaplain of Essentia. They provided Helen with comfort and everything she needed to transition from this life to the next.  We will be forever grateful. 

A Mass will be May 21st at St. Elizabeth's Parish at 11:00 AM. This date was chosen because it would’ve been Helen’s 80th birthday. A funeral luncheon will be held in St. Elizabeth's Social Hall following Mass. Fr. Richard Kunst will be the celebrant.  Knowing that Helen and Jim are together again gives us great peace. Memorials can be sent to DAV, CHUM, or the Gary New Duluth Rec Center.