Rest in Peace, Helen

Posted on June 19, 2018 by Jodi Boyne

Helen Miller, who served as the “face” of the Face Aging MN campaign, passed away on June 17. Helen’s story and her ongoing contributions to Helen’s Corner on the Face Aging MN blog helped raising awareness of issues that accompany our rapidly aging society. Her stories about growing older and advice on what it means to age well and live fully resonated with all audiences and were a key factor in the campaign’s success to date. 

“When we designed the Face Aging MN campaign, we talked about the ideal senior who could share their life experience to help people understand what is means to grow older in Minnesota. We were so fortunate to meet Helen and have her words, wit and wisdom guide our campaign,” said Gayle Kvenvold, President and CEO, LeadingAge Minnesota. “In her last blog post, Helen said “I don’t know where I’m going, but I do know wherever     I’m going, it’s going to be beautiful. After I’m gone, I want my followers to know that. I’m not afraid, and I want to thank each one of you for what you’ve meant to me.” We thank you Helen for all that you meant to us.” 

Helen was 96 years young. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Helen loved to sing, golf, paint, fish, and play any type of card or board game, much to the delight of those around her. She attended Mechanic Arts High School. During WWII, Helen served in the Woman Army Corps at Army Air 8th Fighter Command headquarters in England. She was a long-time resident of Maplewood, West St. Paul and Mesa, AZ. 

She is survived by her sons, Dave (Kristi) Christiansen and Dan (Cheryl) Christiansen; sister Georgia Adkins; 7 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; and many other loving relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by husbands Leo Christiansen (1946-1979) and George Miller (1983-2009); and brother Donald Platten. 

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, June 22 at 10:30 AM at Woodbury Lutheran Church, 7380 Afton Road, Woodbury, with visitation one hour prior to Service. Interment will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Maplewood. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to RSDSA Foundation.