Helen Irene Tickanen

Helen Tickanen; a devoted mother, grandmother and sister found eternal rest on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at the age of 77. Her final days were spent at Watertown Regional Medical Center, with her family and friends by her side. She was born in Milwaukee on May 9, 1944, to Edward and Helen Gronowski.

She grew up in West Allis, where she attended St. Aloysius grade school and graduated from West Allis Central High School. Helen worked most of her career in an office setting, mainly in the construction industry. Many wonderful and memorable years were spent with her family in Florida. Helen lived over a decade close to her son and his family in Dousman. Her hobbies included baking, knitting, gardening, reading and attending countless sporting events for her 3 grandchildren whom she adored. She was an animal lover who spoiled her furry friends rotten, especially Ginger, her Puggle.

Helen is survived by her son Gerrit (Leann) Gronowski, her 3 treasured grandchildren: Adam, Jacob and Hannah Gronowski; and her 5 beloved sisters: Betty Gronowski, Joanne (the late Tony) Faillaci, Pat (Ron) Zirbel, Carole (Al Aird) Parker, and Jan Jagielski, also like a sister, Sharon Smith.

She was known as "Auntie" to her cherished nieces and nephews; Jackie Schultz, Roc Faillaci, Beki Lemler, the late John Parker, Michael Parker, Tommy Jagielski and the late Joey Zirbel. She was also a special great "Auntie" to several great nieces and nephews and also shared a special bond with Gerrit's brother, Jean Paul D'Angelo. Helen was a big part of the lives of her many cousins and extended family. She had countless friends; none more precious to her than Kaye (Bob) Eckert.
Helen was also preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Helen; and her husband, John D. Tickanen.

Helen showed genuine love and kindness to everyone she knew. Always had a smile on her face, and a willingness to help anyone at any time. She had a generous and giving spirit which was evident to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers; memorial donations in Helen's name may be made to the "Society of St. Vincent de Paul".

Helen's family would like to extend a special thank you to River View Assisted Living in Watertown, and to Watertown Regional Medical Center for the dedicated care they provided to Helen.

On Saturday, February 12, 2022, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 120 Nashotah Rd., Nashotah, WI 53058, a visitation will be held for family and friends from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Christian Mass at 11:00 am.