Helen Clouse

Helen Clouse Jan. 20, 1922-April 29, 2006 died peacefully in the early morning hours of April 29, 2006, cradled by the love of her family. Born Jan. 20, 1922, in Mound City, Mo., she was the second of three daughters to Olin and Julia McDonald. She is now reunited with her parents and older sister, Doris Rebel, and with the love of her life, her husband for more than 45 years, Fred Clouse, who preceded her in 1987. During her life, Helen was a doting big sister to Wilma Jean, a loving wife to Fred, and a very much-loved mother to five daughters, Loraine Lins and husband Fred, of Wichita, Kan., Annette Vaughn and husband, George, of Greeley, Eva Clouse and Tom Hoffman, Lala Jacoby and husband, Duane, of Loveland, and Lilly Clouse Weeda, of San Marcos, Calif. She loved hosting the girls' annual "slumber party" where she enjoyed laughing and giggling well into the night. One of the many ways she made each of her eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren feel special was by crocheting blankets made just for them upon their high school graduation. She loved her crocheting and instilled the love of arts and crafts and doing-for-others upon her daughters as well. Helen gathered many friends and "family" in all her 84 selfless years. Known for her quick smile, easy laughter, graciousness and hospitality, she always showed her appreciation for any kindness shown to her. Though she may not have won any national acclaim, Helen Clouse managed to keep her family together, and that makes her a heroine in the eyes of her family and those who loved her. She will be missed. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Bohlender Funeral Chapel in Fort Collins. Memorial contributions can be made in her honor, care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 West Olive St., Fort Collins, CO 80524.