Helen L Christensen

Helen L. Christensen, 89, of Galena, Ohio passed from this life on Thursday, June 2, at New Albany Gardens and Care Center following a series of recent health issues.

She was born on October 12, 1932 in a farmhouse near Atlanta, Ohio in Pickaway County to Robert and Gladys (née Rowland) Thacker.

On June 20, 1953, she married William R. Christensen. He preceded her in death on January 13th of this year. They were able to celebrate 68 years together.

Also preceding her in death were a sister, Betty Van Keuren; a brother, LeRoy Thacker; and sister-in-law, M. Ann Thacker; brothers-in-law, George (Dorotha) Christensen and Frederick "Chris" Christensen; sister-in-law Norma (Richard) Magnuson and infant sister-in-law Ella Marie Christensen.

She is survived by three daughters; Terri (Joe) Cory of Frankfort, Janice (Ralph) DiCarolis of Hilliard, and Valerie Rich (Ben Hollenback) of Gahanna; five grandchildren, Steve and Grant Cory, Brandyn and Adam (Heidi) Wallace, and Jordan Rich; sister, Barbara Remley of Johnstown; brother, Robert Thacker of Westerville; and sister-in-law, Martha Thacker of Johnstown; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Helen was employed by Ohio Farm Bureau following graduation from Mifflin High School in 1950, then by North American Aviation where she worked in the photo lab. She left the workforce to raise her children. Later she was employed by Milpar in Westerville, Ohio. She also worked part-time at the Nationwide Training Center. She was recognized by the Ohio Secretary of State for serving as a poll worker in Delaware County for 56 years. As much as she enjoyed working at the polls, she stepped away with the outbreak of COVID in 2020.

When not employed outside the home, Helen was active in what was then called ARC. The organization held fundraisers and sponsored activities for developmentally disabled children. She also provided leadership in what was then the Delaware County Homemakers Club that met monthly at members' homes for a carry-in lunch and program or craft.

In addition to caring for Bill during his last three years, she and Bill both enjoyed their four acres in Genoa Township which they purchased in 1962. Helen loved to garden and raised some of her own plants in their small greenhouse. She spent much of her time in the kitchen and was a great cook. She always enjoyed preparing meals for the family and had an extensive collection of recipes. Bill frequently complimented her on the way she cared for him, their family, and their home.

Bill's passing left a huge void in Helen's heart and in the family. She is missed, but there is comfort in the fact that she has been reunited with Bill, her parents, her siblings, relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm and Thursday, June 16, 2022 from 10:00am to 11:00 am at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Columbus Northeast Chapel, 3047 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43231. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at 11:00am also at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Columbus Northeast Chapel. She will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

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