Phyllis Marie Helmken, 81, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Tuesday, July 4th, 2023 at Settlers Place in La Porte, IN.

 

She was born September 4th, 1941 in Michigan City, Indiana, the daughter of Mitchell Witowski and Bernice (Wroblewski) Witowski.

 

On September 14th, 1963, she married Donald George Helmken, who preceded her in death October 30th, 2021. She was also preceded in death by her parents; her baby daughter, Tamara and a sister, Mary Jane Witowski.

 

A lifelong resident of the area, Phyllis was a baptized and confirmed member of the Saint Stanislaus Catholic Church in Michigan City, IN. and would faithfully pray the rosary every day. When she was younger, she worked at Carson’s Department Store as well as caring for her home and family. Phyllis enjoyed many things, including yard work, gardening, shopping and decorating her home.  Her special joys, though, were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who she adored.

 

Phyllis is survived by her son Brad (Lisa) Helmken of La Porte, IN; two daughters, Penny (Mike) Utpatal of Michigan City, IN, Valerie Cuzick of Sevierville, TN; two sisters, Carol Minich of La Porte, IN, Sue Clifford of La Porte, IN; ten grandchildren, Brandon (Ariana) Helmken, Katelin Helmken, Luke (Jennifer) Helmken, Stephanie Gadd, Nicholas King, Hunter Friedrich, Cody Friedrich, Collin Dingman, Casie Dingman, Cayla Dingman; and 8 great-grandchildren.

 

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Avenue, La Porte, IN where the family will receive friends Monday, July 10th from 11 AM until 12:45 PM. A rosary will be conducted at 12:45 PM with Father Shawn Gray officiating.  Interment will follow at the St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Michigan City, IN. 

 

Memorial contributions may be made in Phyllis name to St Stanislaus Catholic Church, 109 Ann St., Michigan City, IN 46360

 

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.