Helen Faye Ortgessen

(1926 - 2011)

Helen Faye Ortgessen, 84, of Petersburg, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at Memorial Medical Center with her husband of 64 years at her side. She was born on October 24, 1926 in Petersburg to Leslie and Faye Miller. She married William F. Ortgessen on March 16, 1947.

Helen is survived by her husband, William of Petersburg; daughter, Jana (Wayne) Winkelmann of Petersburg; son, Dan (Janet) Ortgessen of Springfield.  Her family also included three grandchildren, Jay (Christy) Winkelmann, Heather (deceased) husband, John Cotner, and Luke (Megan) Ortgessen; and five great grandchildren, Laura and Sara Winkelmann, Mackenzie and Cael Cotner, and Rowan Ortgessen. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Ortgessen and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents, two brothers, one sister, and granddaughter preceded her in death.

She was a life long member of Petersburg United Methodist Church, where she was very active singing in the choir and teaching Sunday school.  In her younger years Helen played in a traveling softball league.  She volunteered at New Salem State Park and was also a member of the Menard County Historical Society.  She enjoyed having her family around, especially her great grandchildren and she loved to read. She retired from CIPS after 25 years of service.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 11:00 am at Petersburg United Methodist Church.  Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 pm Tuesday evening at Hurley Funeral Home in Petersburg. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Petersburg United Methodist Church or Petersburg Public Library.

Online memorial messages may be left for her family at www.hurleyfh.com